Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It stops heat loss during the winter months and keeps your home cool in summer. Having your double glazed windows fixed when they need to is an excellent method to ensure they are operating effectively.

Over time condensation and misting may affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A rogue ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or an intense storm could shatter your double-pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned window on your own.

To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or window repair sliding off the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to shield your hands from injury and a rag to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or other debris. It is important to sand rough areas of the frame to ensure an even surface for your new glass.

After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to keep your window repair safe and sealed, and it will help you save energy costs by preventing drafts and water from getting into your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are a variety of options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape and helps prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame and will also block out the elements like ice and rain.

Regardless of the material you pick regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the new glass in place and aid it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes which you roll over the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it's best to contact your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover the issues. Fogging or condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals are broken. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing the panes.

The process is complicated and requires specific tools to remove the old one and replace the new one, however it is possible to do this by an expert who will provide the required equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous, however it is recommended to leave this kind of work to professionals.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if you decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is essential to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will receive the new window. You should also wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry it is time to order an additional piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.

Based on the frames you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that your new pane is securely in place. After the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can then be reinstalled.

If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and this can make them sag or stick. If this is the case try wiping down the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be best to ask the company who installed your windows for assistance.

Misunderstood

When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is made up of two panes which are separated by a space that is filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold outside air out.

The seal may become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the glass panes which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, causing water vapour to form within it.

This is a natural occurrence however, if it happens between the panes of the window it could cause problems because it won't be able to control the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will affect the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.

We can repair the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window which is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass unit, then replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in a seal that is watertight again.

There are some companies in the industry that claim to drill holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog but we do not recommend this method. This method is not just ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass leaving you with a window which does not function properly.

If you don't fix the problem immediately it could cause mold, which could not only damage the window, but cause health risks for your loved ones. The condensation in the window could cause other problems in your home like damp or rot. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.

Blown or Failed

Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas may be depressurized and cause various issues.

One of the most frequent is condensation that forms between the panes. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged, it can be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation may be a sign your double glazing has broken, in which case it will need to be replaced completely.

It is also important to look for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. It could be due to a failed seal, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.

You will also notice water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals are failing. This is a clear indication that you should re-seal your double glazed windows.

Your window frames have been designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time, this special packaging material can be compressed and cause the seal to break. This will allow the air to circulate between the panes, which will reduce the energy efficiency of your window.

A seal that is blown is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert immediately you notice a blown window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.