Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat in winter and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Double glazing windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to keep them working properly.

Over time your double glazed windows may experience problems like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A stray ball or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers or even a storm that is heavy could break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged is difficult to repair but it doesn't have 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 window using a little DIY effort.

You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or window repair sliding out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands, and place a rag to cover the broken glass to avoid any further injury or cuts. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. It's important to sand rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for your new glazing.

After cleaning the frame, you can apply a new layer of glass to the area where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best method to protect and seal your window, and will save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are many options available including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match your existing frame and will keep snow and rain out as well.

No matter what material you use, it's important to press the glaziers points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will keep the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. There are warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Fogging or condensation on the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can fix this problem by replacing both panes.

This process is a little complicated and requires special tools to take off the old pane and then install the new one, but it can be accomplished by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. It is best to leave the task to a professional. These tools can be hazardous.

If you decide to undertake this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is important to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. It is also recommended to brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase an additional piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.

You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is properly installed. After the silicone caulk is dried, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can then be reinstalled.

If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and this can make them slide or become stuck. You can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating them when this happens, but it may be better to consult the company that installed your windows.

Misunderstood

Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outdoor air out.

The seal could become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn misty. This happens because the space between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within 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 regulate the temperature of the room, and allows the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double-glazed windows are turning cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

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

Some companies in the field claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the fog and condensation. We do not suggest this method. This method is not just ugly, but it could also harm your toughened glass and leave you with a window which does not function properly.

If you don't address the issue immediately it could cause mold, which could not only harm the window, but could also risk health issues for your family members. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, including dampness or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.

Blown or failed

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 the cold out and heat in. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised and cause a variety of problems.

Condensation in between the panes is one of the most frequent. Although it's a normal event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window has failed, it can be an indication that you need to seal your windows. Condensation could be a sign your double glazing is damaged, in which case it should be replaced completely.

Double-glazed windows may also cause draughts. This could be due to a failure of the seal or a damaged handle lock. A draught is obvious and result in higher heating bills, so it is important that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.

There will also be water beads on the interior of windows if your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you should replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.

Your window frames are made to move slightly, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, over time, this special packaging material may be compressed and crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to flow between the panes and reduce the efficiency of your window.

A damaged seal is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose of keeping cold out and warm inside. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazed window repairs glazing specialist when you notice a blown window seal. They can replace the entire unit.