Why Double Glazing Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing helps keep homes warm and draught-free. However, as time passes they may begin to fail. This can be due to many things, such as condensation between the window panes or blow-out window.
This is an issue that is easily solved. So, in this article, we will look at some of the most frequent double glazing repair issues and how to fix them.
Frames
The frames of your double-glazed windows are an essential components of your doors and windows. They shield the glass panes from moisture, dirt and other contaminants. However, they can also deteriorate over time. The good thing is that they can be repaired without replacing the whole window. Double glazed windows can be restored to their original condition by a proper repair. This will improve the appearance of your home and could increase the value of resales.
A faulty frame can be an important reason for double glazing failure. This can cause draughts or heat loss. This can lead to increased energy costs and the interior of your home is damaged. To avoid this from happening, it is crucial to get your double-glazing fixed as soon as you notice an issue.
You should choose a reputable double glazing repair business to repair the frames. They will be able to offer you a wide range of options, so that you can select the most suitable one for your requirements. In addition, they'll have the necessary tools to complete the task quickly and efficiently.
One of the main benefits of having your double glazed windows fixed is that they'll be more energy efficient. Double glazing is designed to keep warm air inside your home during winter and cold air out during summer. However, if the glass or frame is damaged then it will not be able to do this.
The most sought-after double glazing frame material is UPVC. It is a popular choice because it is robust and requires minimal maintenance. It's also fairly inexpensive. UPVC, however, isn't as flexible as some other materials, and may not be appropriate for every home.
Aluminium is a different material that is used for double glazing frames. Aluminium is light and durable, as well as flexible. However, it might not be the ideal choice for all homeowners.
Glass
Sometimes, double-glazed windows are difficult to open. This could be due to condensation between the panes, or a broken seal or even water ingress. If you suspect there is the case with your double-glazed windows, you might want to contact an experienced repair service.
The good news is, most double-glazed window problems can be resolved without the need to replace the entire window. In some instances, such as misty windows this can be done without the need to replace the frames. This is because a window that is misting is usually caused by poor quality seals, and this can be fixed easily.
To fix the misty double glazing window first thing that needs to be taken care of is removing the smears and condensation from the window panes. To accomplish this you need to lay the double-glazed piece flat on a table (ideally with an absorbent surface such as a towel or duvet between the two to prevent scratches), and use a scraper in order to separate it. After the two pieces have been separated and you are able to use window cleaner spray to eliminate any marks or smears. This will assist them to re-bond together after the repair.
After both glass panes have been cleaned and sanded, the edges that were fixed to the frame will be re-bonded with a special sealant. Once this has been completed, the glass can then be re-seated and new seals applied to ensure that it doesn't get misted again in future.
It is crucial to remember that replacing double-glazed glass is a risk and should only be done by a professional with experience in the field. The process involves a lot of work with highly specific tools, and is not usually a DIY project for most people. This is a great chance to upgrade your single-glazed glass from standard to energy-efficient glass A-rated, which can reduce your heating bills and make your home more comfortable. This could cost considerably less than replacing the entire window.
Locks
Window locks are essential for keeping windows safe particularly in areas that have the possibility of burglaries. They can also help reduce the amount of drafts that enter the home as is a common issue with double glazing that has been fitted to older homes. If you have uPVC windows or double-glazed ones the lock mechanism will have to be fixed from time to time. There are different methods to repair your window locks depending on the type you have installed.
The majority of double-glazed windows come with keys for locking that allows them to be closed and opened by inserting the key into the lock cylinder. This lock is usually found on the side of double-hung windows and is one of the most common kinds of double glazing locks. There are various other kinds of window locks like crank and sash handles.
Double-glazed windows that do not close properly could cause drafts in the home, allowing valuable heat to escape, putting your family at risk of being burglarized. This issue can also lead to water and damp damage if not fixed quickly. An easy test to see whether your uPVC windows are closing correctly is to try and fit the bank card between the frame and the sash when it's closed. If you can place an ATM card between the frame and the sash when it's closed, your window uPVC has to be adjusted.
Another issue that is common to uPVC windows is the seal that is used to hold the glass together may start to perish or shrink. This is an inevitable process that can result from changing temperatures and weather conditions. Over time the seal can become stiff, or shrink away from the frame. This allows air to pass through the gap between the glass panes and create draughts.
A replacement seal is a straightforward solution for this issue and can be found at a majority of hardware stores. It is simple to install and stops the loss of energy through your windows made of uPVC.
Seals
Restoring your double glazing in the earliest time possible will ensure that it's as durable and efficient as is possible. A professional Glazier will have the experience and tools required to repair damages quickly and safely. They can also offer guidance on how you can take care and keep your glass in good condition to extend its lifespan.
Double-glazed windows can't be complete without window seals. They are insulated and keep out moisture. You'll notice that your window seals are damaged or are no longer efficient if you observe condensation inside the glass and fogging on your windows. Repair these issues promptly as they will impact the efficiency of your windows as well as their ability to reduce energy bills.
It is time to contact an expert for double glazing repairs if you observe condensation, fogging or draughts. It might not be necessary to replace your double glazing when the issue is caused by moisture or condensation, as it will usually disappear over time if you have adequate ventilation and a humidified home environment.
However, higher energy costs are another sign that double-glazed windows require repair or replacement because they allow warm air to escape your home causing your heating system to perform more efficiently. If you're unsure whether your increased energy bills could be due to broken seals it is worth contacting the company who installed them to determine what the problem could be.
You can repair uPVC seals yourself by using different methods. However, this kind repair requires specific abilities and skills to prevent further damage. If you attempt to repair a window seal that is damaged without the proper tools and training, it can lead to higher repair costs in the future. It is important to be aware that not all materials work together. If your original window was constructed from timber or wood, you may need to replace it with a different type of material. Using a professional in double glazing repair will ensure you get the right products for your repairs to avoid an expensive mistake that can cost more than repairing or replacing your original double glazed windows.