"Ask Me Anything," 10 Responses To Your Questions About Repair Double Glazing
How to Repair Double Glazing
Double-glazed windows are strong and secure, but they do wear out over time. Signs that your double-glazed window requires repair are the feeling of draught or condensation between the window panes.
The seal that holds the glass panes into place has usually broken. This can be fixed by an encapsulation.
Seals
Seals are an essential part of double glazing because they increase the energy efficiency and insulation of windows. They are situated between the glass panes and uPVC frames, they create an airtight, vital barrier that assists in keeping out rain, wind drafts, condensation, and drafts that can lead to damp walls and windowsills. Additionally, the window seals help keep warm air in and cold out, which significantly lowers heating bills.
Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for window seals to develop faults. This is often due to weathering and exposure to extreme elements like high winds, rain, ice and snow. It can also be caused by improper installation or the use of chemicals such as paint strippers, which harm the rubber.
If the window seals fail, moisture and humidity may seep through the glass panes, causing misting or fogging. It could also affect the insulation properties of double glazing since it will no longer have the gas inert between the panes which helps to keep heat in.
It's possible to make some DIY double-glazed window seal repairs if you know what to look for. However, it's always best to contact a professional window repair company to carry out the work. They can repair windows to restore their energy efficiency and insulating qualities, and remove any unsightly condensation that has formed 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 homeowner. It's a good idea to check the warranty documentation that came with your double glazing or calling the company you bought it from to find out whether they are able to provide any assistance. Examine window repairs Camden Town for coverage in case of issues with double glazing. If you have insurance, it's important to ensure that your claim is made as soon as possible so that you don't incur unnecessary expenses. You can also contact the local authority's Building Control department for further advice and support.
Glass
Double glazing isn't unbreakable and issues with it can develop. The most common issue is misting. This occurs when the seal is broken between two panes and moisture accumulates. It is possible to repair misted double glazing without needing to replace the entire window. It is possible to fix it by removing the affected glass, blowing air into the gap and forming a seal.
Glass can be used to create double-glazed windows that come in various sizes and shapes. Some of the glass is clear like mirrors or safety glass, but it is tempered to ensure strength and safety. Other types of glass are coated to enhance their properties. Solar control glass can be used to reduce glare and heat transfer. Glass that is extra clean is also stain-resistant and self-cleaning.
Double-glazed units that have high efficiency are also available from some manufacturers. These units make use of glass that is insulated and specially formulated films to stabilize the internal temperature to ensure that cooling and heating systems don't need to work as hard.
They are often an affordable alternative to replacement windows, and they provide excellent energy savings. These units should be maintained in a timely manner in order to preserve their effectiveness as time passes.
The most important thing is to contact the company you bought your double glazing from as soon as you notice a problem. Contact them via phone, then follow up with a written note or an email. This means you'll have proof that you notified them of the issue and that you and them have agreed to correct the issue. This is crucial in order to be able to claim any warranties you have. Many businesses offer 10 or 20-year guarantees, while some give lifetime warranties.
Frame
The frames that hold the double glazing are made from materials such as plastic and wood, which can be damaged in various ways. Fragile frames can cause cold air to enter your home which will increase your heating costs. Over time, frames can get bent and twisted. It is possible to replace them or at least remove the sand and paint to bring them back to their original appearance.
If you have a problem with the frames of your windows it is recommended that you call a glazier for help because they have the expertise and tools required to carry out this type of repair. You can do some repairs yourself, however it's usually quicker and cheaper to seek out professional advice. A certified glazier will do the task in a professional manner, and you can claim any expenses.
One common sign that your double glazing requires repairing is condensation building up between the glass panes. This usually indicates that the seal has failed and is allowing air to flow between the panes. This causes the moisture to decrease and can make your room feel draughty. This should be repaired as quickly as you can to avoid any further problems.
It is not always necessary to replace the entire window if it hasn't been broken or cracked. The frame may be in perfect condition, and therefore it's more cost-effective to replace the glass within the window.
Many companies will provide the same day repair service for double glazing however, it is essential to know what you require before you ask for a price. It is not uncommon for sales reps to attempt to talk people into buying more expensive repairs than they actually need. It is a good idea to know what you need, how much it should cost and the reason you'll need it in order to spot a high-pressure sales technique.
You should have your double-glazing checked every few years to ensure that they are in good working condition and to prevent problems. If you do need repairs it is recommended to contact a reputable company for a quote as they will have the expertise and experience needed to resolve your issues quickly and efficiently.
Locks
A reputable tradesperson will install a lock on your window, whether you are building new windows or repairing double glazing. Your installer should discuss different locking systems that are available as part of the quote and which one is best suited to your lifestyle and local crime rates. Espagnolette is a popular option that uses bolts with a mushroom head that engage behind the frame's locking positions. They are usually fitted into uPVC doors and windows, but they can also be incorporated into timber and aluminium.
Other locks are designed to limit the number of times that a window can be opened. Consider installing a window lock like a Canzak Restriction cable to your casement window. It functions like a door chain lock that can be put on either side of the opening to prevent it from opening too far. It's also simple to install and is one of the few locks that can be used on casements.
For windows with sash A hinged wedge lock is a quick solution to stop the lower sash from lowering enough to let an intruder enter. Cut a piece of wood to the length of the channel that is used to operate the lower sash. Fit it in and secure it to the wall.
You can also attach keys to your casement or sash window. They are more durable than latch locks and are typically coupled with them to help ensure the security of windows. These are located on the sides of windows and can be utilized on single and double-hung windows, and sliding ones too.
Other methods to increase the security of your double-glazed windows include installing a shoot bolt lock system. This locks are created by bolts that are shot from both ends to create a very robust lock. They are usually available as an upgrade and are suitable for both commercial and domestic use.
It is also important to ensure that your double glazing installer is accredited by a recognised trade body, like Checkatrade, to ensure they have the experience and know-how to complete top-quality work and meet their requirements.