Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It stops loss of heat in the winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent method to ensure they are operating properly.

Over time, condensation and misting can be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A rogue baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a heavy storm can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a bit of DIY effort.

To begin, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This is a messy job and you'll need to take care to prevent any glass shards from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Use a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to protect the area around the broken glass to avoid further breakage or cuts. After removing the broken glass, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant and debris. It's important to smooth rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for your new glass.

Once the frame is cleaned then you can apply a new layer of glass to the seam where the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It can 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 a bit more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out the elements like ice and rain.

Whatever material you decide to use it is important to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is best to call the company that installed the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that will cover the issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear sign that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be fixed by a professional who will repair both panes.

It is a tricky process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this task and supply the tools. It is best to delegate the task to an expert. These tools could be hazardous.

If you choose to do it yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is also crucial to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth are also recommended. After the frame is dry and clean then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.

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

Double-glazed windows may be difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to sag and stick. If this is the case you could try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to contact the company who installed your windows for help.

Misted

Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air inside and cold outside air out.

This seal can be damaged over time, and moisture may build up between the panes of glass, causing them to appear misty. This happens because the sun heats the gap between the window panes, which causes the water to evaporate.

This is a normal occurrence 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 will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. 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 the need to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty upvc window repair repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, and replacing it with a fresh one to create an watertight seal.

There are companies in the field which claim to drill holes in your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them which they claim will eliminate the fog & condensation but we don't recommend this method. This is not just unattractive, but it could also damage the toughened glass and can result in windows that don't fully perform its function.

If you don't fix the issue quickly it could cause mould, which could not only harm the window, but also risk health issues for your loved ones. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems within your home such as damp or rot. In certain situations it is possible to replace the entire window.

Failed or Blown

Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes, with an inert gas or air between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, allowing warm air in and cold air out. As time passes the gas will become depressurized, causing many problems.

One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failure however it could be a sign you should replace the windows. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing has failed in which case it should be replaced completely.

It is also important to look for drafts coming through your double-glazed windows. This could be due to a failed seal, a broken handle, or a broken lock. A draught is noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs Therefore, it is essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.

You may also see water beads on the interior of windows if the window seals aren't working. This is a good indicator that you should re-seal your double glazed windows.

Your window frames are made to move a little bit as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time, this special packaging material may be compressed and break the all-important seal. This will allow air to flow between the panes and reduce the efficiency of your window.

A seal that is blown is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping cold out and warm inside. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause 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.