Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat during winter months and keeps your home cool in the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as needed is a great way to keep them in good working order.

Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A rogue baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers or double glazing repair even a storm that is heavy can break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. While a damaged glass window is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two panes of glass is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned windows yourself.

To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This will be messy work and you'll need to be cautious to prevent any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After removing the broken pane take care to clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.

After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective way to keep your window safe and sealed and will save you money by stopping drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options, including clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will keep your window safe from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also keep out the elements like ice and rain.

No matter what material you choose it is important to press the glaziers points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes, which you can roll out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is best to call 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 an obvious sign that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be repaired by a professional who will fix both panes.

It's a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this job and provide the equipment. Using these tools can be risky, so it is always best to leave this kind of work to an expert.

Wear safety glasses and gloves if you decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also crucial 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 are also recommended. When the frame is clean and dry, you will need to order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than the 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 your new pane is securely in position. After the caulk dries and is dry, you must smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.

If the weather suddenly 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 problem, you can try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be best to contact the company who installed your windows for help.

Misted

Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.

The seal may fail over time, and moisture can build up between the panes of glass, causing them misty. This happens because the sun's heat causes the gap between the window panes, causing water to evaporate.

This is a normal occurrence but if it happens between the window panes it can cause a problem as it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning 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 unit of glass, then replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in an airtight seal again.

Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes into windows with mist to remove the condensation and fog. We don't recommend using this method. This is not just unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can result in a window that does not fully perform the function it was intended to.

It is essential to address the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated, it can cause mould growth, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks to your family. Moisture can also cause issues in your home, such as dampness or rot. In certain cases the window might need to be completely replaced.

Blown or Failed

Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes the gas may be depressurized and cause various issues.

One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. Although it's a normal phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is failing, it can be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation may also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.

It is also important to look for draughts that are coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be because of an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. A draught is noticeable and will lead to higher heating bills It is therefore essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling the cold air.

Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you begin to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a good indicator that you need to re-seal your double glazed windows.

Your window frames have been designed to move a bit, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in their place. In time, this special packaging material can be compressed. This could cause the seal to be broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.

A seal that is blown is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm in. 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 immediately if you spot a damaged seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.