Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when needed is a great way to keep them in good condition.
Over time, your double glazed windows can suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a strong storm can shatter your double-pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While double glazing Carshalton damaged window may be difficult to fix, you don't have to replace it completely. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good condition and you can fix your double-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This will be an unpleasant task and you'll need to be careful to stop glass shards from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands, and place an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken piece, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to ensure your window stays sealed and protected and aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to choose the right glazing material. There are several options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame and will also block out rain and ice.
Whatever the material you choose regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that you can roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is recommended to contact the window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to cover these issues. Fogging or condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing both panes.
It is a tricky process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this job and provide the tools. Using these tools can be dangerous, so it is always recommended to leave this kind of job to professionals.
If you decide to do it yourself, make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from broken glass pieces that could fly off during the process. 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 with a damp cloth. Once the frame is clean and dry then you'll need get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than the window, and then test it in the grooves.
Based on the frames you have, you will then need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secure in the right place. After the silicone caulk is dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can then be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and cause them to slide or become stuck. Try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them in the event that this happens however, it's better to seek help from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
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 gap filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air inside, and cold air outside.
This seal can become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the glass panes which can cause them to turn misty. This happens because the sun heats the gap between the window panes, causing water to evaporate.
This is a natural process however, if it happens between the panes of the window it could be a problem because it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.
We can replace the blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass, then replacing it with a brand new one. This creates an airtight seal again.
There are companies within the industry that claim to drill holes in your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate fog & condensation but we don't recommend this method. This is not only ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass, leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.
If you don't take care to fix the problem immediately it could result in mould, which can not only harm the window, but also risk health issues for your family members. The condensation in the window could cause other problems with your property like damp or rot. In certain cases the window might need to be replaced completely.
Failed or blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes the gas will become depressurised and cause many issues.
Condensation in between the panes is one of the most common. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is damaged however it could be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing has broken in which case it should be replaced completely.
You should also look out for draughts that are coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be due to an issue with the seal or a broken handle or lock. It is crucial to address this issue as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are failing is when you begin to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you should seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, with time, this special packaging material can become compacted and this will break the all-important seal. This will allow air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A seal that is blown is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can replace the entire unit.