How to Repair Double Glazing
Double-glazed windows are durable and secure, however they will wear out with time. Signs that your double glazing requires repair are an odor of draught, or condensation in between the windowspanes.
The seal that keeps the glass panes in place is usually damaged. This can be fixed by an encapsulation.
Seals
The seals used with double glazing are a crucial element of the overall insulation and energy efficiency of windows. They are located between the glass panes of uPVC frames and create an airtight barrier that helps keep out wind and rain, drafts and condensation which can cause damp on windows and wall sills. Additionally, window seals help to keep warm air in and cold out which can significantly reduce heating bills.
Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for window seals to develop a problem. This is typically due to the weathering process and exposure to harsh elements like high winds or rain, ice or snow. It could also be caused by incorrect installation or the use of chemicals such as paint strippers that damage the rubber.
If the window seals fail, moisture and humidity can seep into the glass panes causing fogging or misting. It could also affect the insulation properties of the double glazing since it won't have the inert gas between the panes which helps to retain heat.
If you know what to watch for, you can try to do some DIY double-glazed window seal repair. It is recommended to hire an expert to complete the work. They can repair windows to increase their energy efficiency and insulating qualities, as well as take out any unattractive condensation that has formed between the glass panes.
Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that means they can be replaced or repaired without cost to the owner. It's a good idea to check the warranty paperwork that was supplied with your double-glazed window or contact the company you purchased it from to determine whether they can provide any assistance. It's also worth checking your home insurance policy to be sure that you're covered in case of any issues with double glazing. If you're insured, it's important to make claims as soon as you can to avoid costly costs. You can also contact the local authority's Building Control department for further assistance and advice.
Glass
Double glazing isn't indestructible and problems may arise. The most common issue is misting. It happens when the seal between two panes is broken and moisture builds up. It is possible to fix misted double glazing without having to replace the entire window. Repairing it involves removing the affected pane, blowing air into the gap to remove any moisture that remains, and then creating an entirely new seal.
Double glazed windows can be made from a wide selection of glass. Some are plain, like mirrors or safety glass, which is tempered to increase its strength and safety properties. Certain types of glass are coated to them to improve their properties. Solar control glass can be used to reduce glare and heat transfer. Extra clean glass is also stain-resistant, self-cleaning and self-cleaning.
Some manufacturers also offer high-efficiency double glazed units. These are made of insulated glass that has special films to keep the internal temperatures stable, which means that heating and cooling systems don't have to perform as hard to maintain comfortable levels within your home.
Often, these are an affordable alternative to replacement windows, and they provide great energy savings. However, these windows need to be properly maintained due to the technologies they incorporate can wear out over time.
The most important thing is to contact the company you purchased your double glazing from when you notice problems. Contact them via phone, then follow up by writing a letter or an email. This will provide proof that you've informed them of the issue and that you and them agreed to address the issue. If you want to claim any warranty, this is a must. Many companies offer warranties of 10 or 20 years, and some even give lifetime guarantees.
Frame
The frames that hold the double glazing are made from materials such as wood and plastic which can be damaged in a variety of ways. Frames that are damaged can let cold air into your home, which could increase your heating bills. Over time, frames can get bent and twisted. They may require to be replaced or at a minimum cleaned and sanded down to restore them.
If you have a problem with the frames of your windows it is recommended that you call an expert glazier to help you as they have the skills and equipment required to carry out this type of repair. It is possible to do some repairing yourself but it is usually quicker and cheaper to get professional help. A qualified glazier will complete the task correctly, and you can claim any costs.
Condensation in between the panes of glass is a typical indication that double glazing needs repair. This usually means that the seal has failed and allows air to flow between the panes. This can cause the moisture to fall and make your home feel humid. It is a good idea to fix this as soon as possible to avoid recurring problems.
double glazing repairs near me is not always necessary to replace the whole window if it's not damaged or cracked. In fact the frame could be in perfect condition, which is why it would be more economical to replace the glass within the window.
Many companies provide same-day double glazing repair services, but you must be aware of the requirements you have before requesting an estimate. It is not unusual for sales reps to attempt to convince people to buy more expensive repairs than they actually need. It is crucial to know exactly what you want, how much you should pay and why. This will allow you to recognize sales techniques that are high-pressure.
It is recommended to have your double glazing examined every couple of years since it will ensure they are in good working order and avoid problems. It is best to get 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
A trustworthy tradesperson will install a window lock regardless of whether you are building new windows or repairing double glazing. The installer should go over the various locking systems available in the estimate and what best suits your lifestyle and the local crime rate. Espagnolette is a very popular choice that uses bolts with a mushroom head that are inserted behind the frame's locking points. They are most commonly used on uPVC but they can also be used on wood and aluminium.
Other locks are designed to limit the amount that a window can be opened. Consider installing a window lock like a Canzak Restriction cable in your casement window. It functions like a door chain lock that can be put on either side of the moving portion to stop it from opening up too far. It is also simple to install and is one of the only locks that work with 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 to gain access. Cut a piece of wood to the width of the channel that operates the lower sash, fit it into the frame, and then affix it to the wall and frame.
You can also install the sash lock or a casement lock. These are more robust than latch locks and are often coupled with them to help ensure that windows are secure. They are on the side of windows and can be used on both single and double-hung windows, as well as sliding ones.
Other methods to increase the security of your double-glazed windows include the addition of a shoot bolt lock system. This locks are created by shooting bolts from both ends to create a very strong lock. They are usually available as an upgrade option, and are suitable for both residential and commercial usage.
Verify that your double-glazing installer is accredited by an industry body like Checkatrade to ensure that they have the skills and experience to complete top-quality work that meets their standards.