15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Double Glazed Window Repair
15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Double Glazed Window Repair
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Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. Double glazing windows repaired when needed is a great way to ensure that they function effectively.
Over time, your double glazed windows can suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a severe storm could break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to fix however, you don't have to replace it completely. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a bit of DIY effort.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. Be careful to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or slipping from the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands, and place a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After removing the broken piece, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best way to ensure that your window is safe and sealed and will aid in reducing energy costs by preventing drafts and water from getting into your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are several options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and helps prevent 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 your frame and will keep out rain and snow too.
Whatever the material you choose, it is important to press glazier's facets into the place where the putty joins the frame. They will help keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is best to contact 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 an obvious indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be repaired by an expert who will fix both panes.
It's a complicated process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this job and provide the tools. Utilizing these tools could be risky it is recommended to leave this kind of work to a professional.
If you choose to do it yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is important to take out all metal or putty points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. It is also recommended to wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Once the frame is dry and clean then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
You'll need to apply a layer silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure that your glass is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk is dried you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and, as a result, they can slide or become stuck. If this is the problem try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company that installed your windows for assistance.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
The seal may become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the glass panes which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.
This is a normal thing to happen however, if it occurs between the window panes it can cause a problem as 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 your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is upvc repairs near me more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, then replacing it with a new one to make an airtight seal.
There are some companies in the field that claim to cut holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them that they say removes the condensation and fog but we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with windows that do not fully perform the function it was intended to.
It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated it can cause mould growth that not only damages the window, but can also pose health risks to your family. Moisture can also cause problems in your home, like dampness or rot. In certain cases, the window may need to be replaced entirely.
Blown or failed
Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, keeping the cold out and heat in. As time passes the gas may become depressurized, causing many problems.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is damaged, it can be an indication that you need to seal your windows. Condensation could also be a sign that your double glazing has failed in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
It is also important to look for drafts coming through your double glazed windows. This could be because of a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught is noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs, so it is important to fix it sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows when your window seals aren't working. This is an indication that you have to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move slightly and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in position. However, over time this special packaging material may be compressed and break the all-important seal. This will allow the air to move between the panes, reducing the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured an air seal is a sign of failure and needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary function that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal can let moisture in, which could cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. Call a double glazing specialist when you notice a blown window seal. They can replace the entire unit.