Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It stops loss of heat during winter months and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good condition.

Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.

Broken Panes

A stray baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers or even a heavy storm can break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a bit of DIY effort.

To begin, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task and you'll need to take care to prevent any glass fragments from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After you have removed 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 create an even surface for your new glazing.

After the frame has been cleaned and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective way to keep your window safe and sealed, and it will save you money by keeping water and drafts from getting into your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are several 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 over to match your frame and will also keep snow and rain out as well.

No matter what material you choose it is important to press the glaziers points into that gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and help it stick to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you roll out onto the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Fogging or condensation on the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals are broken. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing both panes.

It's a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can do this task and supply the equipment. It is best to delegate the task to an expert. These tools could be hazardous.

If you decide to undertake this yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is essential to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is also recommended. Once the frame is dry and clean then you'll need purchase a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window, and then test it in the grooves.

Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is securely in place. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it out and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.

Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to become sagging and stick. If this is the issue try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company who installed your windows for help.

Misunderstood

When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted 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 creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air in, and cold outdoor air out.

As time passes, the seal will begin to break down and moisture will start to accumulate between the window panes, which causes them to become cloudy. This happens because the space between the panes gets heated by the sun, causing water vapour to develop in it.

This is a normal thing to happen however, if it occurs between the window panes, it can cause a problem as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room and allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace the sealed blown unit without having to replace the whole window which is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass unit before replacing it with a brand new one. This creates a watertight seal and will be watertight.

There are companies in the field that claim to drill holes in your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them which claim to eliminate fog & condensation, however, we do not recommend this method. This is not only unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass, leaving you with a window which doesn't function properly.

It is important to fix the issue as soon as you can, as if untreated it can result in the growth of mould, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family. The moisture in the window may also lead to other problems within your home such as damp or rot. In certain situations it is possible to replace the entire window.

Failed or blown

Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes that have an inert gas or air between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency by keeping the cold out and heat in. Over time, this gas can depressurize which can lead to a range of issues.

Condensation between panes is among the most common. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window has failed but it could be an indication that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation is also an indication of a damaged double glazing that will require a re-installation.

Also, look out for drafts coming through your double glazed windows. This could be because of an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can. A draft can cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.

You may also see water beads on the inside of windows when your window seals aren't working. This is an indication that you have to seal your double-glazed windows.

The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in their place. Over time, this special packaging material may be compressed. This upvc repair will result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to move between the panes, reducing your window's energy efficiency.

A blown seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary function that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal can let moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a double glazing repair expert immediately if you notice a blown seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the whole unit.