Why Double Glazing Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing keeps homes warm and free of drafts. In time, however they could begin to fail. This is due to numerous factors, including condensation between the windows or even a blown window.
This is an issue that is easily fixed. So, in this article, we will look at some common problems with double glazing and the best way to fix them.
Frames
The frames of double glazing are essential elements of your doors and windows. They support the panes of glass and shield them from dirt, water and other contaminants. However, they can also deteriorate over time. The good thing is that they can be repaired without replacing the entire window. A well-planned repair can restore your double glazed windows to their original state. This will enhance the appearance of your home and could increase its resale value.
A frayed or damaged frame is a typical cause of double glazing failure. This can cause drafts or loss of heat. This can cost you money on energy bills and could damage the interior of your house. To prevent this from happening, it's important to get your double-glazing repaired when you spot an issue.
It is a good idea to hire professional companies for repair of double glazing to fix the frames. They will offer a wide range of options so you can pick the one that best meets your needs. They will also have the tools necessary to complete the work quickly.
One of the main advantages of having double glazed windows fixed is that they'll be more energy efficient. Double glazing is designed in a way that it can keep warm air in your home during winter, and cool air out in summer. If the glass or frame are damaged, they will not be able do this.
UPVC is the most sought-after material for double glazing frames. It is popular because it's sturdy and requires very little maintenance. It is also relatively inexpensive. UPVC however, is not as flexible as some other materials and may not be suitable for every home.
Another option that is popular for double glazing frames is aluminium. It is extremely light and durable, but it might not be the best choice for some homeowners because of its rigidity.
Glass
Sometimes double-glazed windows can be 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 company.
The good news is that the majority of double-glazed window issues can be resolved without having to replace the entire window. In some instances such as misty windows this can be completed without having to replace the frames. This is because a misty window is often caused by poor quality seals, and this can be fixed easily.
To fix a misted double glazing window, the first thing that needs to be taken care of is removing the condensation and smears from the window panes. This can be done by laying the double glazed unit on a flat work bench (ideally with a soft, absorbent surface like a towel or duvet between to prevent scratches) and using a scraper to break it off from the frame. After the two pieces glass are separated, they can then be cleaned with window cleaning spray to remove any smears or marks and to aid in re-bonding them together when the repair is completed.
Once both panes of glass have been cleaned and sanded, the edges that were fixed to the frame will be re-bonded using a specific sealant. After this is completed, the glass can then be repaired and new seals put on to ensure it does not get misted again in future.
It is important to note that replacing double-glazed glass is a risk and should be carried out by a qualified professional with expertise in the field. It is a very involved procedure that requires special tools and is usually not a DIY task. It's also an excellent opportunity to upgrade from standard single-glazed glass to A-rated energy efficient glass which can help to reduce your heating bills and keep your home comfortable. This could cost considerably less than replacing the entire window.
Locks
Window locks are essential to ensure the security of windows particularly in areas with the possibility of burglaries. They also help reduce draughts which are a typical problem in older homes with double glazing. Whatever the case, whether you have uPVC or double-glazed windows the lock mechanism might require maintenance from time to the point. There are different ways to repair your window locks depending on the type of lock you have installed.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature a keyed locking system that allows them to be closed and opened by inserting the key into the lock cylinder. The lock is located on the outside of double-hung windows and is one of the most commonly used types of double glazing locks. There are other kinds of window locks like crank and sash handles.
Double glazed windows that don't close properly could cause drafts in the home, allowing heat to escape and putting your family at risk of burglary. This issue can also result in damp and water damage if it's not dealt with promptly. If you want to know if your uPVC window is closing correctly you can try putting a credit card between the sash of the window and the frame. If you can fit the card, then the sash will need to be adjusted.
Another issue that is common to uPVC Windows is that the seal holding the glass together could begin to weaken or shrink. This is an natural process that may result from changes in temperature and weather conditions. As time passes the seal can be brittle or shrink from the frame which allows air to get between the panes of glass and result in draughts.
The majority of hardware stores have an alternative seal that can solve this problem. It's easy to install and can help stop the loss of energy from your windows made of uPVC.
Seals
Repairing your double glazing in the earliest time possible will ensure it is as efficient and durable as possible. A professional glazier is knowledgeable and tools to fix damage quickly and safely. They'll also be in a position to offer any information regarding maintenance and care that could help to extend its lifespan.
Double-glazed windows aren't complete without window seals. They provide insulation and keep out moisture. If your window seals become damaged or become less effective, you will notice condensation forming within the glass, and the windows becoming fogged. It is crucial to fix these issues immediately you notice them since windows won't retain heat or be as effective in reducing your energy bills.
It's time to call an expert for double glazing repairs if you see fogging, condensation or draughts. If the problem is condensation or moisture it might not be necessary to replace your double-glazing.
A rise in energy costs may be a sign that your double-glazed windows need to be repaired or replaced. This is due to the fact that they allow warm air from your home to escape, making your heating system work harder. If you're unsure whether your higher energy bill might be due to damaged seals, it is a good idea to contact the company who installed them to determine what the issue might be.
You can repair uPVC seals yourself by employing various methods. However, this type of repair requires specific skills and knowledge in order to avoid further damage. If you attempt to repair a window seal that is damaged without the right tools and the proper training, it can lead to higher repair costs in the future. It's also important to know that not all materials are compatible with one with each other, and you may require another material if the original window is made of wood or timber. Using a specialist in double repair of glazing will ensure that you have the correct materials for your repairs to avoid making a costly error that could be more expensive than replacing or repairing your original double glazed windows.