How to Repair Double Glazing
Double-glazed windows are durable and secure, however they will wear out with time. Signs that your double glazing needs repair include a feeling of draught or condensation between the windowspanes.
Fogging or condensation between panes is usually a sign that the seal that holds the glass panes has deteriorated. This can be fixed with a reseal.
Seals
Seals are an essential part of double glazing, as they improve the energy efficiency and insulation of the windows. They are located between the glass panes of uPVC frames and provide an airtight seal which helps keep out wind and rain, drafts and condensation which can cause damp on the walls and window sills. Additionally, window seals aid in keeping warm air inside and cold air out which can significantly reduce heating costs.
Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for window seals develop a problem. This usually happens due to exposure to harsh weather conditions and extreme elements such as high winds, snow and rain. It can also be caused by incorrect installation or the use of chemicals such as paint strippers, which harm the rubber.
If the window seals are damaged, it can cause moisture and humidity can get trapped between the glass panes, causing fogging or misting of the windows. Double glazing may lose its insulating properties when the inert gases that are between the panes are no longer present.
It is possible to do some DIY double glazed window seal repairs if are aware of what to look for. However, it's always better to call a professional window repair company to do the work. They can reseal the windows to restore their insulating and energy efficient properties and also remove any unsightly condensation that has accumulated between the glass panes.
Many double-glazed windows are covered by a warranty which means they can be repaired or replaced at no cost to the homeowner. Review the warranty documents that came along with your double glazing, 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 double glazing problems. If double glazing repair near me insured and you have a claim, it's crucial to make a claim as soon as possible to avoid costly costs. You can also consult your local authority's Building Control department for further assistance and advice.
Glass
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage and problems can arise. The most common issue is misting, which happens when the seal between two panes breaks down and moisture builds up. It is possible to repair misted double glazing, without having to replace the entire window. It is possible to repair it by removing the damaged glass, blowing air into the gap and forming an airtight seal.
Double glazed windows can be constructed from a variety of glass. Some are plain, like mirrors or safety glass, which is tempered to enhance its strength and safety characteristics. Other types of glass are coated to enhance their properties. Solar control glass is a good choice to reduce glare and heat transfer. Extra clean glass is also stain-resistant, self-cleaning and self-cleaning.
Certain manufacturers also produce high-efficiency double-glazed units. These units make use of glass that is insulated and specially formulated films to regulate the internal temperature, so that heating and cooling systems don't need to be as laborious.
In most cases, they are less expensive than replacement windows, and they provide great energy savings. However, they do need to be properly maintained, as the technologies they utilize can wear out over time.
If you spot a problem, it is crucial to contact the company that you bought your double glazing. Contact them by phone and then follow up with an email or a letter. You'll have proof of contacting them of your concerns and agreeing to address the issue. If you want to claim a warranty it is essential to do this. Many businesses offer guarantees of 10 or 20 years, and some even provide lifetime warranties.
Frame
The frames that hold double glazing are made from materials like wood and plastic, which can be damaged by a variety different ways. Fragments that are damaged could allow cold air to enter your home, which will increase your heating bills. Frames can also get damaged, warped, or discolored over time. They might need to be replaced or at least sanded down and repainted to make them look better.
It is best to contact an expert glazier if you're experiencing issues with the frames on your windows. They have the skills and tools to repair this type of problem. You can complete some repairs yourself, however it's usually quicker and cheaper to seek out professional advice. A certified glazier will do the task correctly and you are able to claim any costs.
Condensation between the glass panes is a common sign that double glazing requires repair. This usually indicates that the seal between the glass panes has failed and allowed air to get in. This causes the moisture to drop and can make your space feel draughty. It is best to get this fixed as soon as possible to avoid further problems.
If the window isn't cracked or broken it might not be necessary to replace it. The frame could be in perfect condition, so it is more cost-effective to replace the glass in the window.
Many companies will provide the same day service for double glazing repairs, but it is important to know what you require before requesting a quote. It is not unusual for sales reps to try to talk people into buying more expensive repairs than they actually need. It is best to know what you need, how much it should cost and why you need it to be able to detect a sales tactic that is high-pressure.
It is a good idea to have your double glazing regularly checked as this will keep them in good working order and help avoid issues. It is recommended to obtain a quote from a reputable business when you are looking to repair your double glazing. They will have the experience and knowledge to fix your problem quickly.
Locks
Whether you need to repair double glazing or have new windows installed, a reputable tradesperson must install a lock to keep your window secure. As part of your quote your installer should go over the different locking systems available and choose the one that best suits you and your local crime rate. An option that is popular is an Espagnolette system which has mushroom headed bolts that engage behind locking points on the frame. They are commonly fitted into uPVC doors and windows, but they can also be incorporated into aluminium and timber.
Other locks are made to limit the amount of opening a window. Consider installing a Canzak Window Restriction cable in your casement window. It functions like a door chain lock and can be put on either side of the moving portion to prevent it from opening too much. It is also easy to install and is one of the only locks that can be used with casements.
A wedge lock with hinges can be used to prevent the lower sash of sash windows from being lifted enough to allow an intruder into. Cut a length of wood to match the width of the channel that controls the lower sash, fit it in, and secure it to the frame and wall.
You could also add keys to your sash or casement windows. These are more robust than latch locks and are usually used in conjunction with them to ensure the security of windows. They are found on the sides of windows and work on single and double hung windows as well as sliding windows.
Other methods to increase the security of your double-glazed windows include the addition of a shoot bolt lock. This locks are created by shooting bolts from both ends to create a very sturdy lock. They are usually offered as an upgrade and are suitable for commercial as well as domestic use.
Verify that your double-glazing installer is certified by an industry body like Checkatrade to ensure they have the skills and experience to complete top-quality work in line with their standards.