How to Repair Double Glazing Double-glazed windows are strong and secure, but they tend to wear out over time. Double glazing that requires repair can be identified by the feeling of draught in the windows or condensation. Fogging or condensation between the panes usually means that the seal holding the glass panes has deteriorated. This can be fixed by a reseal. Seals Seals are an essential component of double glazing as they increase the efficiency of energy and insulation of windows. They are located between the glass panes of uPVC frames and provide an airtight barrier which helps keep out wind and rain, drafts and condensation which can cause damp on walls and window sills. Additionally, the window seals aid in keeping warm air in and cold out which can significantly reduce heating bills. It is not uncommon for window seals to develop defects. This is often due to weathering and exposure to extreme elements such as high winds or rain, ice or snow. It can also be caused by improper installation or the use of chemicals such as paint strippers which damage the rubber. When the window seals fail it can cause moisture and humidity can seep between the glass panes, leading to fogging or misting of windows. It could also affect the insulation properties of the double glazing as it will no longer have the gas inert between the panes that helps to retain heat. If you know what to watch for, it's possible to do some DIY double-glazed window seal repair. It is recommended to hire professionals to do the job. They can reseal windows in order to improve their energy efficiency and insulation properties, and also take out any unattractive condensation between the glass panes. Double-glazed windows often have a warranty which means that they can be replaced or repaired at no cost to the owner. It's worth checking the documentation that came with your double glazing or contacting the company you bought it from to see whether they can provide any assistance. double glazing repairs near me for your home to see if you are covered in the event of problems with double glazing. If you have insurance, it's worth ensuring that you make your claim as soon as you can so that you don't incur unnecessary expenses. You can also contact your local authority's Building Control department for further guidance and assistance. Glass Double glazing isn't indestructible and issues with it can arise. The most common problem is misting. This happens when the seal cracks between two panes and water is accumulated. Fortunately, misted double glass can be repaired without the cost of replacing the entire window. It is possible to repair it by removing the affected glass, blowing air through the gap and creating a seal. Glass can be used to make double glazed windows in different shapes and sizes. Some glass is plain like safety or mirrors, but it is tempered to increase durability and safety. 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 and self-cleaning. Some manufacturers also offer high-efficiency double-glazed units. These use insulated glass with special films to maintain the internal temperature, which means that heating and cooling systems do not have to perform as hard to maintain comfortable levels within your home. In most cases, they are an affordable alternative to replacement windows and offer great energy savings. These units should be maintained in a timely manner, as they can lose their effectiveness in time. If you spot problems, it's important to contact the company that you bought your double glazing. Contact them by phone, and then follow-up with a written note or email. This way, you'll have proof that you've informed them of the issue and that you and the company have agreed to correct the issue. If you're looking to claim any warranty this is essential. Many businesses provide warranties of 10 or 20 years, and some provide lifetime warranties. Frame The frames that support double glazing are made from materials like wood and plastic, which can be damaged in a variety of ways. Frames that are damaged can allow cold air into your home, which can increase your heating bills. Over time, frames can get bent and twisted. They might need to be replaced or at a minimum cleaned and sanded down to make them look better. If you have a problem with the frames of your windows it is recommended to contact a glazier for assistance as they have the skills and tools needed to complete this kind of repair. It is possible to carry out some repairing yourself but it is usually quicker and less expensive to seek professional assistance. Having a qualified glazier finish the job will ensure that the work is done correctly and you can get reimbursement for any costs. Condensation between panes of glass is a typical sign that double glazing requires repair. This usually indicates that the seal between the glass panes has failed, allowing air to enter. This can cause the humidity to drop and make your room feel draughty. This needs to be fixed as soon as you can to avoid any future issues. If the window isn't damaged or cracked it might not be required to replace it. In fact, the frame itself could be in pristine condition so it would be more cost-effective to replace the glass unit inside the window. Many companies will provide an same-day service for double glazing repairs However, it is crucial to know what you need before requesting a quote. It is not unusual for sales representatives to try to convince people to purchase more expensive repairs than they actually need. It is a good idea to understand what you require, how much it should cost and why you need it so that you can detect a sales tactic that is high-pressure. It is recommended to have your double-glazing checked every few years to ensure they are in good working condition and to prevent problems. It is recommended to obtain an estimate from a reputable firm in case you require repairs to your double glazing. They'll have the experience and knowledge to fix your problem quickly. Locks Whether you need to repair double glazing or are having new windows installed, a reliable tradesperson must install a lock to ensure your window is secure. In the course of quoting, your installer should discuss the various locking options available and which one best suits your needs and local crime rate. An option that is popular is an Espagnolette system that has bolts with a mushroom-shaped head that fit behind locking points on the frame. They are typically fitted into uPVC windows and doors but can be added to timber and aluminium. Other locks are designed to limit the amount that a window can be opened. If yours is a casement type window, you might want to consider installing a Canzak Window Restriction Cable, which functions as the chain lock used for doors and can be secured to either side of the opening to prevent it from opening too far. It's also simple to install and one of the few locks that can be used on casements. A hinged wedge lock could be used to stop the lower sash of windows that are sash from being raised enough to permit an intruder to enter. Cut an sash of wood that is the length of the channel used to operate the lower sash. Fit it in and secure it to the wall. You can also put in an sash or a casement lock. They are more durable than latch locks and are frequently used together to secure windows. They are situated on the side of windows and are used on both single and double-hung windows, and sliding ones too. There are other ways to make your double glazed windows more secure including adding a shoot bolt locking system that includes bolts that shoot from both ends of the frame to create an incredibly sturdy lock. These are typically offered as an upgrade and are suitable for commercial and domestic use. It is also important to ensure that your double glazing installer is accredited by a reputable trade body, like Checkatrade to ensure that they have the experience and expertise to carry out top-quality work that is in line with their requirements.
double glazing repairs near me
