Double Glazed upvc window repairs Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat during winter months and keeps your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time condensation and misting may impact your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy 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 repair, you don’t have to replace it completely. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good shape, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.
To begin, you’ll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. You’ll need to be careful to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to shield your hands from injury and window repair a cloth to cover the area around the broken glass to avoid further breakage or cuts. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. It is essential to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure an even surface for the new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays sealed and protected and aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are many options available such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window or glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match your frame, and it will keep out rain and snow as well.
No matter what material you decide to use, it’s important to press the glaziers points into that gap where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier’s point ropes that you can roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to call your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Fogging or condensation between the windows’ panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
It is a tricky process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can complete this job and provide the equipment. Using these tools can be risky it is best to leave this type of job to professionals.
If you decide to undertake this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is essential to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth is recommended. After the frame is dry, you’ll need to order a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8″ shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
You will require a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure that the glass you are installing is securely installed. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it out and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and, as a result, they can slide or become stuck. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows for help.
Misted
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 space, typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep your temperature comfortable in your home.
In time, however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will start to build up between the windows, causing them to become misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, causing water vapour to develop in it.
This is a normal occurrence however, if it occurs between the window panes, it can cause a problem as it can no longer regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.
We can repair the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the whole window which is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, and replacing it with a new one to create an airtight seal.
There are some companies in the industry that claim to drill holes in your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog however, we do not recommend this procedure. This is not just unattractive, but it could also damage the toughened glass and can result in a window that does not completely function.
It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated, it can cause mould growth, which not only damages the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can also cause other problems in your home, like dampness or rot. In certain situations, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, keeping warm air in and cold air out. As time passes the gas will become depressurized, causing many problems.
Condensation between the panes is one of the most common. It is not a sign of a window failure however it could indicate that you need to reseal the panes. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing is damaged, in which case it’s time to get it replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. This could be because of an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a broken lock. It is important to fix this problem as soon as you can. A draft can cause you to pay more for heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows if the window seals are failing. This is a clear indication that you should replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in position. In time, this special packaging material can become compacted. This can cause the seal to be broken. This will allow the air to move between the panes, reducing the efficiency of your window’s energy consumption.
Double glazing that has blown a seal is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired as soon as is possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm inside. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home’s moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a double glazed window repairs glazing repair specialist as soon as you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, as they are able to replace the whole unit.