Double Glazed Window Repair

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

Over time condensation and misting may be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.

Broken Panes

A unruly ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a strong storm can shatter the double pane windows of your home, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is in good shape, and you can fix your double glazing Greenwich-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.

You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This will be messy work and you'll need to be careful to stop any glass fragments from falling on the floor misty or falling out of the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a rag to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further damage or misty breaks. After removing the broken piece and cleaning the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface to put in your new glass.

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 method to seal and protect your window. It can also save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are several options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and helps prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also block out rain and ice.

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

Condensation

Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this issue, it is best to contact the company that provided the window. There are warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear sign that the seals between your windows have been damaged and must be repaired by an expert who will fix both panes.

It's a complicated procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can do this task and provide the equipment. It is best to leave the work to an expert. These tools could be hazardous.

If you decide to undertake this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that might fly away during the process. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. It is also recommended to brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry, you'll need to order an additional piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.

You will require a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is secure in its installation. After the caulk dries it is time to smooth it and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding can then be reinstalled.

If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to become sagging and stick. If this is the problem try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company that installed your windows for help.

Misted

When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature comfortable in your home.

In time, however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will start to build up between the window panes, which causes them to become misty. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by the sun, causing water vapour to build up within it.

This is a normal occurrence but if it happens between the window panes, it could cause problems as it can no longer 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 individual blow-sealed unit without having to replace the whole window and is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass, cleaning it, and then replacing it with a fresh one to create 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 condensation and fog. We don't recommend this method. This is not only unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window that doesn't function properly.

It is important to fix the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated it can result in the growth of mould which can not only damage the window but can also pose health risks to your family. Moisture in the window can cause other problems in your home, such as damp or rot. In some instances, the window may need to be completely replaced.

Failed or Blown

Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes, the gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.

One of the most frequently encountered is condensation that forms between the panes. While it is a natural event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window has failed however it could be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation is also a sign of a broken double glazing that will require a re-installation.

Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. This could be due to the seal being damaged, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. A draught can be obvious and result in higher heating bills Therefore, it is essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by smelling cold air.

You will also notice water beads on the inside of windows if your window seals are failing. This is a clear indication that you will need to seal your double-glazed windows.

Your window frames are designed to move a bit, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in place. As time passes, this particular packaging material can be compressed. This will cause the seal to become broken. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, which will 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 prevent your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm in. A blown seal could let moisture in your home, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a specialist in double glazing repair immediately if you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.