Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat in winter and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good working order.

Over time, condensation and misting can be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A unruly ball or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even a strong storm can shatter your double-pane windows which can 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 shape, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.

You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to prevent glass shards from falling to the floor window repair or slipping off the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to cover the area around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken pane and cleaning the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.

Once the frame is cleaned and dried, you can apply a new layer of glass to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best method to keep your window secure and sealed and help you save energy costs by keeping water and drafts from entering the house. The next step is to select the material for your glazing. Some options include clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and can keep your window secure from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame and can also shield your windows from snow and ice.

Whatever the material you pick regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help hold the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll over the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it's best to call your window manufacturer. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that provide coverage for the problems. Fogging or condensation on the windows' panes is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can fix this problem by replacing both panes.

The process is complicated and requires the use of special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, however it is possible to do this by a professional who will provide the necessary equipment. It is best to delegate the work to a professional. These tools can be dangerous.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also important to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth is recommended. When the frame is dry and clean you'll need to order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your window that you have and then fit it in 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 the new pane is secured in the right place. After the silicone caulk is dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.

If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to sag and stick. If this is the case try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be best to ask the company that installed your windows for assistance.

Misted

When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a space filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside and allows you to keep the temperature comfortable in your home.

The seal may fail over time, and moisture can build up between the glass panes which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.

This is a normal process but if it happens between the window panes it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room and allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double glazed windows are becoming cloudy, window repair contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a new one to make an watertight seal.

There are some companies in the field who claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them which they say removes the fog & condensation however, we don't recommend this method. This is not just unattractive, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and result in a window that does not fully function.

It is crucial to resolve the problem as soon as possible, as left untreated, it could lead to mould growth, which not only damages the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems with your property like damp or rot. In some cases, the window may need to be replaced entirely.

Failed or blown

Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing the cold out and heat in. Over time, the gas can become depressurised 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 has failed however it could be a sign that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation can be an indication that your double glazing has broken in which case it should be replaced completely.

Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. This could be caused by a failure of the seal or a broken handle or lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs, so it is important to fix it sooner rather than later. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.

There will also be water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals are failing. This is an indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.

Your window frames are made to move a little bit, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. As time passes, this particular packaging material can be compressed. This could result in the seal being broken. This allows air to flow between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.

A blown seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing repairs glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist as soon you notice a blown window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.