Technology Is Making Double Glazed Window Repair Better Or Worse?

Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat in the winter months and helps to keep your home cool in summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when required is a great method to keep them in good working order.

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

Broken Panes

A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmowers, or an intense storm could shatter the double pane windows of your home and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to fix however, you don't have to replace it completely. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is in good condition and you can fix your double-paned window yourself.

To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This will be messy work, and you'll want to take care to prevent any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag around the broken glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. It is important to sand rough areas of your frame to create a smooth surface for your new glazing.

After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to keep your window secure and sealed and help you save energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are several options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window, or glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrapping. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match the frame you have and will also keep out rain and snow as well.

Whatever material you choose it's essential to press the glaziers points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you simply roll onto the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that installed the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to 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 a professional who will repair both panes.

This process is a little difficult and requires the use of special tools to remove the old one and replace the new one, but it can be accomplished by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. Utilizing these tools could be risky, so it is always recommended to leave this kind of work to professionals.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to take out all metal or window replacement putty points from the grooves that will receive the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth are also recommended. After the frame is dry it is time to order a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.

You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk into the grooves of your frames to ensure your glass is secure in its installation. After the caulk dries, you will need to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be put back in place.

Double-glazed windows can become 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 fall or stick. If this is the problem, you can try wiping the frames down with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to ask the company that installed your windows for assistance.

Misted

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 consists of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outside air out.

Over time however, this seal can break down and moisture will start to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the sun's heat causes the gap between panes of windows, causing the water to evaporate.

This is a natural occurrence however if it occurs between the windows' panes it could cause problems since it will no longer be able to control the temperature inside the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace a single blow sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is far more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass before replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in a seal that is watertight again.

Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes into windows with mist to remove the fog and condensation. We do not suggest this method. This is not only unsightly, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and can result in windows that do not completely perform its function.

It is important to fix the problem as soon as you can, as if untreated, it could lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window, but also poses health risks to your family members. Moisture can cause other problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the entire window.

Failed or Blown

Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes the gas may become depressurized, causing many issues.

Condensation in between the panes is one of the most frequent. It's not an indication of a window failure however it could indicate that you should replace the windows. Condensation could also be a sign that your double glazing has broken and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.

You should also look out for draughts coming from the double-glazed windows. This could be caused by the seal being damaged or a damaged handle lock. A draught can be evident and can result in more expensive heating bills It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling the cold air.

There will also be water beads on the inside of windows when your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is an indication that you have to reseal the double glazed windows.

The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this special packaging material may be compressed and cause the seal to break. This will allow air to flow between the panes, which will reduce your window's energy efficiency.

A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture into your home, which could lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.