Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It stops loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cool in summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as needed 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 and close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a severe storm could break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. The insulated glass between two glass panes is in good condition and you can fix your double-paned windows yourself.
To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. Be careful to avoid any glass shards falling onto the floor or sliding off the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag around the broken glass to avoid any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken pane and cleaning the entire frame of the window to remove any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It will also save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted over to match your frame and will keep snow and rain out as well.
No matter what material you decide to use it is important to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and assist it adhere to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it's best to contact the window manufacturer. double glazing repair Kingsbury of windows come with warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Fogging or condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are broken. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing both panes.
This process is a little complicated and requires specific tools to remove the old one and replace the new one, however it can be accomplished by an expert who will supply the required equipment. It is recommended to leave the task to professionals. These tools can be hazardous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves in which the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth are also recommended. After the frame is dry, you'll need to order another piece of glass that is 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 in the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is securely installed. After the caulk is dry, you will need to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
Double glazed windows can become difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and cause them to fall or stick. If this is the case you could 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 in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a space that is filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air out.
As time passes, the seal will begin to break down and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the gap between window panes, causing water to vapourize.
It is a natural phenomenon however, if it happens between the windows' panes it could be a problem since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature within the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature inside. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window. This is far less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass and replacing it with a brand new one. This will create an airtight seal again.
Certain companies in the business claim that they can inject chemicals through holes into windows that have been misty to eliminate the fog and condensation. We do not suggest 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 crucial to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, as left untreated, it can cause mould growth which can not only damage the window, but can also pose health risks to your family. Moisture in the window can cause other problems within your home such as damp or rot. In certain cases windows, they may have to be replaced completely.
Blown or Failed
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes that have 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 a variety of problems.
Condensation between the panes is among the most common. It's not an indication of a window failing however it could indicate that you should replace them. Condensation may be a sign your double glazing has failed and, in that case, it's time to get it replaced completely.
You should also look out for drafts coming through the double-glazed windows. This could be due to a failed 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 spend more on heating. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the interior of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in place. In time, this special packaging material could become compacted. This can cause the seal to be broken. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
A seal that is blown is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist when you spot a damaged window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.