Why Double Glazing Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing keeps homes warm and free of drafts. However, over time they could start to fail. This could be due to various factors, such as condensation between windows or even a blown window.
Thankfully, this is a situation that can be easily repaired. So, in this article, we will look at some common double glazing repair issues and the best way to fix them.
Frames
The frames of your double glazing are an essential components of your windows and doors. They protect the inner glass panes from moisture dirt and other contaminants. double glazing repairs near me can become damaged over time. It is good to be aware that you can fix them without needing to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows can be restored to their original state with a good repair. This will enhance the appearance of your home and could even boost the value of your home's resales.
A frayed or damaged frame could be a common reason for double glazing failure. The issue can cause drafts and loss of heat. This could cost you money on energy bills, and can cause damage to the interior of your home. To avoid this from happening, it's important to get your double glazing repaired immediately you spot an issue.
You should hire a professional double glazing repair company to fix the frames. They'll be able to provide you with a range of options, so you can choose the best one that meets your needs. They will also have the tools necessary to complete the work quickly.
One of the major benefits of having double glazed windows fixed is that they will be more energy efficient. Double glazing is designed to keep hot air inside your home in the winter months and cold air out during summer. If the glass or frame are damaged, it will not be able to perform this.
The most well-known choice of double glazing frame material is UPVC. It is due to its the benefits of durability as well as low maintenance. It's also fairly inexpensive. UPVC, however, is not as flexible as other materials and might not be appropriate for every home.
Aluminium is a different material that is used for double glazing frames. It is durable and lightweight however, it might not be the best option for some homeowners because of its rigidity.
Glass
Sometimes double-glazed windows can be difficult to open. This can be due condensation between the panes, a damaged seal, or even water intrusion. If you suspect this is the case with your double glazing you might want to call an experienced repair company.
The good news is that the majority of problems associated with double-glazed windows can be resolved without the need to replace the entire window. In some cases, like misty glass it is possible to fix the issue without having to replace the frame. A misted window is usually caused by a bad seal. This is easily fixed.
To fix a double glazing window that has become misted, the first thing to be taken care of is removing the condensation and smears that have formed on the window panes. To do this, lay the double-glazed unit flat on a table (ideally with an absorbent surface such as duvet or towel between the two to prevent scratches) and then employ a scraper to separate it. Once the two pieces of glass are separated, they can be cleaned using window cleaner spray to eliminate any marks or smears and to help re-bond them when repairs are completed.
Once both panes of glass have been cleaned and the edges that were sealed to the frame can be re-bonded using a special sealant. Once this has been completed, the glass can then be restored to its original position and new seals are applied to ensure that it doesn't be misted in the future.
It is vital to know that replacing double-glazed glass can be dangerous and should only be done by a professional with expertise in the field. It is a complicated process that requires specialized tools and is generally not a DIY task. It is also a good opportunity to upgrade from standard single-glazed glass to energy efficient A-rated glass which can help to reduce your heating bills and make your home more comfortable. The cost of this can be much less than that of replacing a complete window.
Locks
Window locks are essential for keeping windows safe particularly in areas where there is a risk of break-ins. They can also reduce the amount of draughts in the home which is a typical issue with double-glazed windows which has been installed to older homes. If you have uPVC windows or double-glazed ones the lock mechanism will have to be replaced at least once in a while. There are various methods to repair your window locks based on the type you have installed.
The majority of double glazed windows have a lock that is keyed that can be opened and closed by inserting keys into the lock cylinder. The lock is situated on the outside of a double-hung window and it is one of the most well-known types of double glazing locks available. There are different types of window locks that are suitable too, including crank handles and Sash locks.
Double-glazed windows that do not close properly could cause drafts in the home, allowing heat to escape and putting your family at risk of burglary. This can result in damp and water damage if it is not addressed promptly. An easy test to see whether your uPVC windows are closing correctly is to try to fit a bank card in between the frame and the sash when it's closed. If you are able to fit the card, then your sash will need to be adjusted.
Another common issue with uPVC windows is that the seal that connects the glass can begin to weaken or shrink. This is a normal occurrence that is caused by changing weather conditions and temperatures. As time passes, the seal can become stiff or shrink from the frame which can allow air to enter between the glass panes and cause draughts.
Most hardware stores carry the replacement seal to solve this issue. It's easy to install and can help stop the loss of energy through your uPVC windows.
Seals
Restoring your double glazing as soon as you can will ensure it is as durable and efficient as possible. A professional glazier is knowledgeable and tools to repair damage quickly and safely. They can also give you guidance on how you can take care and maintain your glass to help extend its lifespan.
Double glazed windows are not complete without window seals. They are insulated and block moisture. You will notice that your window seals have been damaged or not as effective if you see condensation inside the glass or fogging on the windows. It is essential to repair these issues when you notice them because the windows will no longer retain heat or be as effective in reducing your energy bills.
If you notice condensation, fogging or draughts between your window panes it's time to call a professional for a double glazing repair. It might not be necessary to replace your double-glazing if the problem is caused by moisture or condensation, as it will usually disappear over time if you have adequate ventilation and a humidified home environment.
However, the rising costs of energy are another indication that double-glazed windows require replacement or repair because they allow warm air to escape your home causing your heating system to work harder. If you're not sure if your increased energy costs are due to damaged seals, it's worth contacting the company that installed them to see what the issue might be.
While you may be able to fix uPVC window seals yourself by using various methods, it's recommended to leave this kind of repair to professionals as it requires specific knowledge and skills to prevent damage or further damage. Repairing an unsatisfactory window seal without the proper tools and the proper training could lead to more expensive repair costs in the future. It's also important to know that not all materials are compatible with each with each other, and you may require another material if the original window is made from wood or timber. Using a specialist in double glazing repair will ensure that you get the correct products for your repairs, avoiding making a costly error which could cost more than repairing or replacing the original double-glazed windows.