Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces heat loss in the winter and keeps your home cooler during the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good working order.

Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.

Broken Panes

A rogue baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers or even a storm that is heavy can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane window with a little DIY effort.

To begin, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This can be a messy job, and you'll want to take care to prevent any glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a rag to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After removing the broken glass take care to clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant or debris. It is important to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glass.

Once the frame is cleaned and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the place where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best method to seal and protect your window. It will also save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. There are several options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted to match your frame and will keep out rain and snow as well.

Whatever material you decide to use it is important to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and aid it to adhere to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll over the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to call your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to provide coverage for these issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be repaired by a professional who will replace both panes.

This process is a little tricky and requires special tools to take off the old pane and then install the new one, however it can be accomplished by a professional who will provide the required equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous, however, so it is always best to leave this kind of job to a professional.

If you do decide to do it yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that might fly away during the process. It is also important to carefully remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. It is also recommended to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Once the frame is dry and clean, you will need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than your upvc window repair, and then test it in the grooves.

You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk in the grooves of frames to ensure your new glass is securely installed. After the silicone caulk is dried you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. Then 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 fall or stick. If this is the case try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company who installed your windows to help.

Misunderstood

Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that is caused by moisture getting 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 to provide better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature in your home comfortable.

The seal may fail over time, and moisture can build up between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn misty. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to form in it.

This is a natural process however if it occurs between the panes of the window it could cause problems because it will no longer be able to control the temperature within the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature inside. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

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

Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the fog and condensation. We do not recommend using this method. This is not just ugly, but it can also harm the toughened glass and leave you with a window that does not fully function.

If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could result in mould, which can not only harm the window, but could also pose health risks to your family members. The moisture in the window may cause other issues in your home like damp or rot. In some cases the window might need to be replaced entirely.

Blown or Failed

Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes, with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.

Condensation between the panes is among the most frequent. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window has failed however it could be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation could be an indication that your double glazing has broken, in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.

Also, look out for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be due to an issue with the seal or a damaged handle or lock. It is important to fix the issue as quickly as possible. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of the window frame to see whether you feel cold air.

You may also see water beads on the interior of windows when your window seals are failing. This is a good indicator that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.

Your window frames are designed to move a bit in order to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. As time passes, this particular packaging material could become compressed. This will cause the seal to be broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.

A damaged seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair expert immediately if you spot a damaged seal on your double-glazed windows, as they are able to replace the whole unit.