window repair Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It stops heat loss during the winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when necessary is a great way to keep them in good condition.
Over time, condensation and misting can affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers or even a storm that is heavy can break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is still in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane window using a bit of DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be cautious to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or falling out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After removing the broken pane and cleaning the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant and debris. It is essential to smooth rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface for your new glass.
Once the frame is cleaned and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the seam in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to keep your window safe and sealed, and it will save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are a variety of options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted to match the frame you have, and it will keep snow and rain out too.
No matter what material you decide to use, it's important to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help 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 that you simply roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it is best to call your window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees that cover the issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be repaired by a professional who will repair both panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can do this task and supply the equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to an expert. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. When the frame is clean and dry you'll need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.
Based on the frame you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secured in position. After the caulk is dry, you will need to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to become sagging and stick. Try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them in the event that this happens however, it's better to seek advice from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
The seal may become damaged over time and moisture can build up between the panes of glass, causing them to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun heats the space between the window panes, causing water to evaporate.
This is a natural occurrence however, if it happens between the panes of the window it could be a problem since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature within the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature inside. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace the blow-sealed unit without having to replace the entire window, which is a lot less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass before replacing it with a new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.
Certain companies in the business claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the fog and condensation. We don't recommend this method. This is not just unattractive, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and leave you with a window that does not completely perform its function.
If you don't fix the issue quickly it could result in mold, which could not only cause damage to the window, but also risk health issues for your loved ones. The moisture in the window may cause other issues in your home like damp or rot. In certain cases, the window may need to be completely replaced.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are made up of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes, the gas can depressurize, leading to a number of issues.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not an indication of a failure in the window however it could indicate that you need to reseal the windows. Condensation can be an indication that your double glazing has failed in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.
Also, look out for draughts that are coming from your double glazed windows. This could be due to the seal being damaged, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can. A draft will force you to spend more on heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.
You may also see water beads on the interior of windows if your window seals aren't working. This is an indication that you have to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time, this particular packaging material will be compressed and cause the seal to break. This will allow the air to circulate between the panes, which will reduce the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
Double glazing that has broken seals is a sign of failure and should be fixed immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm inside. A damaged seal could let moisture into your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert as soon you notice a blown window seal. They can replace the entire unit.