Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It stops heat loss during the winter months and keeps your home cool during summer. Having your double glazed windows fixed when they need to is a great way to ensure that they function effectively.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy storm could break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. Be careful to keep glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure Luton window repairs wear gloves to protect your hands and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further breakage or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. It is important to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure an even surface for your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to protect and seal your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and will keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out snow and ice.
Whatever material you choose it's essential to press the glazier's points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it is best to call the window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that provide coverage for the problems. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are broken. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can do this job and provide the equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to an expert. These tools can be dangerous.
If you decide to undertake this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is important to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is also recommended. When the frame is dry and clean, you will need to purchase a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is securely in position. After the silicone caulk is dried, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and 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 case you could try wiping the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold air outside.
In time, however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will start to build up between the window panes, causing them to become misty. This occurs because the sun's rays heat the gap between the window panes, which causes the water to evaporate.
This is a normal process however, if it occurs between the window panes it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room and allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass before replacing it with a brand new one. This creates an airtight seal and will be watertight.
Some companies in the industry claim to inject chemicals through holes into misted windows to remove the fog and condensation. We don't recommend this method. This is not only ugly, but it could also harm your toughened glass and leave you with a window that doesn't function properly.
It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated, it can lead to mould growth, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family members. Moisture can cause other issues in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or failed
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time, the gas can be depressurized and cause a variety of issues.
Condensation between the panes is one of the most common. It's not an indication of a failure in the window however it could be a sign you should reseal the windows. Condensation is also an indication of a damaged double glazing, which will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. This could be due to the seal being damaged, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs It is therefore essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by smelling 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 clear indication that you should seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move slightly in order to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, over time this particular packaging material will get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.
A seal that is blown is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm inside. In addition, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a specialist in double glazing repair when you spot a damaged seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.