Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat during winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as required is a great method to keep them in good condition.

Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from issues like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy storm can break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good condition and you can fix your double-pane window using a little DIY effort.

To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear gloves for you hands, and an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. It is important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure an even surface for your new glazing.

Once the frame is cleaned then you can apply a new layer of glass to the place where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to ensure that your window is secure and sealed and aid in reducing energy costs by preventing drafts and water from getting into your home. Next, you will need to select your glazing material. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more robust than regular tape and can keep your window from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted to match your frame, and it will keep out snow and rain too.

Whatever material you choose it is important to press the glaziers points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. They will help keep the glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues and double Glazing Repair if you experience this problem it is best to contact the company that installed the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and must be repaired by an expert who will replace both panes.

It's a complicated procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this task and provide the tools. It is recommended to leave the job to professionals. These tools can be risky.

If you do decide to do this yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is also important to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry and clean then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.

Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secure in place. Once the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.

Double glazed windows can be difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can fall or stick. If this is the issue you could try wiping the frames down with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to contact the company who installed your windows for help.

Misted

When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a gap filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and double glazing repair cold air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.

This seal can fail over time, and moisture can build up between the panes of glass, causing them to appear misty. This happens because the sun's rays heat the space between the panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.

It is a natural phenomenon however, if it happens between the panes of the window it could be a problem because it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass, then replacing it with a brand new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.

There are some companies in the industry which claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them which they say removes the fog & condensation, however, we do not recommend this method. This is not just ugly, but it can also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with windows that do not completely function.

If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly, it could lead to mold, which could not only harm the window, but could also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can also cause issues in your home, including dampness or rot. In some instances, the window may need to be replaced completely.

Failed or Blown

Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes, with an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping warm air in and cold air out. Over time, the gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.

One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failure however it could indicate that you should reseal the panes. Condensation could be a sign your double glazing is damaged in which case it should be replaced completely.

Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a broken lock. It is crucial to address the issue as quickly as you can. A draft will force you to pay more for heating. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.

Another indication that your window seals are failing is when you begin to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you have to seal your double-glazed windows.

The frames of your windows are designed to move a little bit as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time, this particular packaging material will become compacted and this will crack the crucial seal. This will allow the air to flow between the panes, reducing the energy efficiency of your window.

A seal that is blown is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary job of keeping cold out and warm inside. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which can lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair specialist when you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.