Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat in winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired as needed is a great way to keep them working 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 unruly ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a strong storm can shatter your double-pane windows and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to repair, you don't have to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass between two panes of glass is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is a messy job and you'll need to be careful to stop any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or slipping out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to protect the area around the broken glass to prevent further damage or breaks. After removing the broken pane take care to clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to protect and seal your window. It can also save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are several options such as 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. This type of wrap has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also keep out snow and ice.
Regardless of window repair Hounslow pick regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's facets into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will keep the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that provided the window. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing both panes.
The process is complicated and requires the use of special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, but it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the required equipment. Utilizing these tools could be risky, so it is always best to leave this type of work to a professional.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also essential 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 then vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry, you'll need to order another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have You will then have to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secured in the right place. After the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and cause them to slide or become stuck. If this is the issue try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company who installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is made up of two panes, which are separated by a space filled with argon for better thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside, and cold air outside.
The seal may be damaged over time, and moisture can build up between the panes of glass, causing them misty. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, causing water vapour to form in it.
This is a normal process but if it happens between the window panes it can cause a problem as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to fog.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit without having to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass unit, then replacing it with a brand new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.
There are companies in the field which claim to cut holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog, however, we don't recommend this method. This is not just unsightly, but it could also damage the toughened glass and result in windows that don't completely perform the function it was intended to.
It is important to fix the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated it can lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window, but also poses health risks to your family. Moisture can also cause issues in your home, including dampness or rot. In some cases the window might need to be replaced entirely.
Failed or blown
Double-glazed windows consist of two panes of glass with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, keeping warm air in and cold air out. As time passes the gas will be depressurized and cause a variety of issues.
One of the most common is condensation between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing, but it could be a sign that you should reseal the panes. Condensation can also be an indication of broken double glazing, which could require a re-installation.
Also, look out for draughts that are coming from your double glazed windows. This could be due to a failure of the seal or a damaged handle or lock. It is essential to fix this problem as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another sign that the seals on your windows have failed is when you begin to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move slightly in order to keep the glass sheets in position. However, over time, this particular packaging material will get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This will allow the air to flow between the panes, reducing the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has broken an air seal is a sign of failure and should be repaired as soon as is possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function of keeping cold out and warm in. A damaged seal could let moisture in your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a double glazing repair specialist as soon as you notice a blown seal on your double-glazed windows, as they are able to replace the whole unit.