How to Repair Double Glazing
Double-glazed windows are durable and secure, but they tend to wear out over time. Signs that your double-glazed window is in need of repair include an odor of draught, or condensation in between the window panes.
The seal that keeps the glass panes in place is usually damaged. Resealing can fix this.
Seals
The seals used in double glazing are an essential part of the overall insulation and energy efficiency of the windows. They are placed between the glass panes of uPVC frames and create an airtight barrier that helps keep out rain and wind, drafts and condensation which can cause damp on walls and window sills. The window seals also help to keep warm and cold air separated, which could lower heating costs.
It's not unusual for the window seals to develop a problem. This is typically due to the weathering process and exposure to harsh elements such as high winds, rain, ice and snow. It could also be caused by incorrect installation or chemical substances like paint strippers which damage the rubber.
If the window seals fail, it could mean that humidity and moisture can seep between the glass panes, leading to fogging or misting of the windows. It could also affect the insulation properties of the double glazing as it no longer has the inert gas between the panes which assists in retaining heat.
If you know what to look out for, it's possible to carry out some DIY double-glazed window seal repair. It is best to employ professionals to do the work. They can seal the windows to restore their insulating and energy efficient properties as well as tackle any unsightly condensation that has developed between the glass panes.
Many double-glazed windows have a warranty which means that they can be repaired or replaced at no cost to the owner. Examine the warranty paperwork that came with your double-glazed windows, or contact the business from which you bought it to find out what assistance is available. Examine your home insurance policy to see if you are covered in the event of issues with double glazing. If you're covered, it's important to ensure that your claim is made as soon as you can in order to avoid any unnecessary costs. double glazing near me can also contact the Building Control Department of your local authority for further assistance and advice.
Glass
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage and problems may arise. The most frequent issue is misting. This happens when the seal breaks between two panes, and moisture accumulates. Fortunately, misted double glazing can be fixed without the cost of replacing the entire window. It is possible to repair it by removing the damaged glass, blowing air through the gap, and then creating the seal.
Double glazed windows can be made from a variety of glass. Some are simple, such as mirrors or safety glass that is tempered to enhance its strength and safety characteristics. Other kinds of glass are coated to enhance their properties. Solar control glass is a good choice to reduce the glare and heat transfer. Extra clean glass is also stain-resistant, self-cleaning and self-cleaning.
Double-glazed units with high efficiency are also available from a few manufacturers. These units make use of glass that is insulated and specially formulated films to maintain the internal temperature so that heating and cooling systems don't have to work as hard.
These are often a more affordable option than replacing windows, and they could help you save a lot of energy. However, these windows need to be properly maintained because the technology they use can become worn out over time.
When you notice an issue, it is important to contact the company that you bought your double glazing. Contact them by phone, and then follow up with a written letter or an email. You'll have proof of contacting them and agreeing to correct the issue. This is vital if you want to claim any guarantees you may have. Many companies provide warranties of either 10 or 20 years, and some provide lifetime warranties.
Frame
The frames that house double glazing are made of materials such as plastic and wood that can be damaged by a variety different ways. Fragile frames can cause cold air to seep into your home which will increase the cost of heating. Frames can also become warped, twisted and discoloured over time. They may require to be replaced or at least sanded down and repainted to repair them.
It is best to consult a glazier if you are having issues with the frames on your windows. They have the necessary skills and tools to repair this kind of issue. You can make some repairs yourself, however it's usually quicker and cheaper to seek advice from a professional. A qualified glazier will complete the task correctly, and you can claim any costs.
A common indication that your double glazing needs repair is the appearance of condensation in between the glass panes. This is usually a sign that the seal has failed and allowing air to flow between the panes. This could cause the moisture to fall and make your home feel humid. It is recommended to get this fixed as soon as possible to avoid further problems.
It is not always necessary to replace the whole window, as long as it hasn't been broken or cracked. In fact the frame itself may be in perfect condition, which is why it is more economical to replace the glass within the window.
Many companies will offer an same-day service for double glazing repairs However, it is crucial to know what you need before asking for a quote. It is not uncommon for sales reps to attempt to talk people into buying more expensive repairs than they really need. It is important to determine what you require, how much it should cost and the reason you'll need it in order to spot a high-pressure sales technique.
It is recommended to have your double glazing examined every couple of years since they will be in good working order and avoid problems. If you require repairs, it is best to contact a reputable company for an estimate since they have the expertise and experience needed to solve your issues quickly and effectively.
Locks
A reliable tradesperson will put the lock on your window regardless of whether you are building new windows or repairing double glazing. As part of the quote your installer should go over the different locking systems available and choose the one that best suits your needs and local crime rate. An extremely popular choice is an Espagnolette system which has bolts with a mushroom head that are positioned behind locking points on the frame. They are commonly installed into uPVC doors and windows but they can also be added to timber and aluminium.
Other locks are designed for limiting the amount of opening windows. You might want to consider installing a Canzak Window Restriction cable in your casement window. It functions as a door chain lock and can be installed either side of the opening to stop it from opening up too much. It's also very easy to install and is among the few locks that can be used on casements.
A hinged wedge lock could be used to keep the lower sash of windows that are sash from being lifted enough to allow an intruder into. Cut a piece of wood the width of the channel that operates the lower sash. Fit it in and fix it to the wall.
You can also put in a sash or casement lock. They are more durable than latch locks and are often used in conjunction with them to ensure the security of windows. They are found on the sides of a window and work on single and double hang windows as well as sliding windows.
Other ways to increase the security of your double-glazed windows are adding the shoot bolt lock system. This lock is created by shooting bolts from both ends to create a very robust lock. They are usually offered as an upgrade and are suitable for commercial as well as domestic use.
Also, make sure whether your double glazing installer is accredited by a recognised trade body, like Checkatrade, to ensure they have the knowledge and know-how to complete high-quality work and comply with their standards.