Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat in winter months and helps keep your home cool in the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as necessary is a great way to keep them in good working order.

Over time condensation and misting may impact your double-glazed windows. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A unruly ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a storm that is strong enough can break your double pane windows and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is still in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. Be careful to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After removing the broken pane and cleaning the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant or debris. It is important to sand rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for the new glazing.

Once the frame is cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glazing to the place where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to seal and protect your window. It can also reduce your energy bills by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are many options available, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to 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 is important to press the glazier's points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and help it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which you can use onto the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is best to call the company that provided the window. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that cover these issues. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are damaged. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing both panes.

It's a difficult procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this task and supply the equipment. Making use of these tools can be dangerous it is best to leave this type of job to a professional.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also important to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame has dried, you'll need to order a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window doctor. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.

Based on the frames you have, you will then need to apply a layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is securely in position. After the caulk is dry, you will need to smooth it and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.

If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and cause them to sag or stick. If this is the case you could try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to ask the company that installed your windows for help.

Misted

Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing is made up of two panes, which are separated by a gap filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside, and cold air outside.

This seal can become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the glass panes and cause them to become misty. This occurs because the sun heats the space between the window panes, which causes water to evaporate.

This is a normal process but if it happens between the window panes it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room and allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to fog.

We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass unit before replacing it with a brand new one. This creates an airtight seal and will be watertight.

There are companies in the industry who claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog however, we do not recommend this procedure. This is not just unsightly, but it could also damage 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 you can, because if left untreated, it could result in the growth of mould which can not only damage the window but also poses health risks to your family. Moisture can also cause other problems in your home, like dampness or rot. In some cases windows, they may have to be completely replaced.

Failed or Blown

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

One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing however it could be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation could also be an indication of a damaged double glazing that will need to be replaced.

It is also important to look for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. It could be due to the seal being damaged or a damaged handle or lock. It is essential to fix this problem as soon as you can. A draft will force you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.

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

Your window frames are designed to move slightly in order to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. As time passes, this particular packaging material can become compacted. This can result in the seal being broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes, decreasing the energy efficiency of your window.

Double glazing that has ruptured seals is an indication of a failure and should be repaired as soon as possible. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's 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.