Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat in the winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Double glazing windows repaired when needed is a great way to ensure that they function correctly.
Over time, condensation and misting can impact your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmowers or a storm that is strong enough can break your double-pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape So you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be careful to stop any glass shards from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect you hands, and a rag to cover the broken glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or other debris. It is essential to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth 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 save you money by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to select the material for your glazing. There are window repair Maidstone of options 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 wrapping. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame and will also block out the elements like ice and rain.
Whatever material you decide to use it's essential to press the glaziers points into that gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which you can use onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is best to contact the company that provided the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing both panes.
This procedure is a bit tricky and requires the use of special tools to take off the old pane and then install the new one, however it can be done by a professional who will provide the required equipment. It is recommended to leave the task to a professional. These tools can be hazardous.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to remove any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth is recommended. After the frame is dry you'll have to purchase another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secured in the right place. After the caulk is dry, you will need to smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows may be difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and this can make them slide or become stuck. If this is the case you could try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to ask the company that installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
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 panes, which are separated by a gap filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold air outside.
In time, however, this seal can break down and moisture can begin to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to become misty. This happens because the sun's heat causes the gap between panes of windows, causing water to vapourize.
This is a natural process however if it occurs between the windows' panes it can be a problem because it won't be able to control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window, which is a lot less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, and replacing it with a fresh one to create a watertight seal again.
There are companies within the industry who claim to drill holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate fog & condensation but we don't recommend this method. This is not just unsightly, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with a window that does not fully perform its function.
It is essential to address the issue as soon as you can, as if untreated, it can cause mould growth that not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family members. Moisture can also cause other problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In certain cases windows, they may have to be replaced completely.
Blown or failed
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of problems.
Condensation in between the panes is one of the most frequent. It is not a sign of a failure in the window however it could be a sign you should replace the panes. Condensation is also an indication of broken double glazing, which will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. This could be due to the seal being damaged or a broken handle or lock. A draught can be quite obvious and result in more expensive heating bills It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another sign that the seals on your windows have failed is when you begin to notice water beads on the inside of your windows. This is a clear indication that you need to seal your 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 their place. However, with time, this special packaging material can be compressed and break the all-important seal. This allows air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown seals is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping the cold out and warm in. A damaged seal could let moisture into your home, which could lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair specialist immediately if you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.