Repair Double Glazing 10 Things I'd Loved To Know In The Past

How to Repair Double Glazing

Double-glazed windows last a long time and secure, however they do experience wear-and-tear over time. Signs that your double glazing requires repair are a feeling of draught or condensation in between the windowspanes.

Fogging or condensation between the panes usually means that the seal that holds the glass panes together has deteriorated. This can be fixed by a reseal.

Seals

The seals that are used in double glazing are an essential element of the overall insulation and energy efficiency of the windows. They are located between the glass panes of uPVC frames and create an airtight barrier that helps keep out rain and wind as well as condensation and drafts that can cause damp on walls and window sills. The window doctor seals also help keep warm and cold air separate, which can lower heating costs.

It is not common for window seals to develop defects. This usually happens due to exposure to extreme weather conditions and harsh elements like high winds, rain and snow. However, it could also be due to incorrect installation or the use of chemicals, such as paint strippers that harm the rubber.

If the window seals fail, moisture and humidity may seep through the glass panes, causing misting or fogging. Double glazing may lose its insulation properties when the inert gases that are between the panes are not present.

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 the windows to restore their insulation and energy efficient properties and also remove any unattractive condensation that has formed between the glass panes.

Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that means they can be replaced or repaired without cost to the owner. It's a good idea to check the warranty documents that was supplied with your double-glazed window or calling the company you bought it from to find out whether they are able to provide any assistance. Review your insurance policy for your home for coverage in the event of problems with double glazing. If you do have cover it's worth ensuring that you file your claim as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary costs. You can also consult your local authority's Building Control department for further guidance and assistance.

Glass

Double glazing may have issues. The most common problem is misting. It happens when the seal between two panes is broken and moisture builds up. Fortunately, misted double glazing can be repaired without the cost of replacing the entire window. It is possible to repair it by removing the affected glass, blowing air into the gap, and then creating a seal.

Glass can be used to make double-glazed windows that come in various sizes and shapes. Some glass is a plain type, similar to mirrors or safety, however it is tempered to ensure security and strength. Certain types of glass have coatings added to them to improve their properties. Solar control glass is a good choice to reduce glare and heat transfer. Extra clean glass is also stain-resistant and self-cleaning.

Some manufacturers also make high-efficiency double-glazed units. These units use glass that is insulated and specially formulated films to regulate the internal temperature so that cooling and heating systems do not need to be as laborious.

Often, these are an affordable alternative to replacement windows and they offer great energy savings. These units must be maintained in a timely manner since they may lose their effectiveness over time.

As soon as you discover a problem, it is important to contact the company which sold you the double glazing. Contact them by phone and then follow up with an email or letter. This way, you'll have evidence that you informed them about the problem and that you and they agreed to fix it. This is essential if you want to claim any guarantees you may have. Many companies offer 10 or 20-year guarantees, while some give lifetime warranties.

Frame

The frames that house the double glazing are constructed out of wood and plastic which can be damaged in a variety of ways. Damaged frames can allow cold air to penetrate your home which will increase your heating costs. Frames can also be bent, twisted, and discoloured as time passes. They might need to be replaced or at a minimum cleaned and sanded down to make them look better.

It is best to consult a glazier if you are having issues with the frames on your windows. They have the necessary expertise and tools to fix this kind of issue. You can complete some repairs yourself, but it's usually quicker and cheaper to seek professional advice. A qualified glazier can complete the job properly, and you can be reimbursed for any costs.

One common sign that your double glazing requires repairing is condensation building up between the glass panes. This usually indicates that the seal between the glass panes has broken and allowed air to get in. This results in the water level dropping and it can make your home feel cold and stale. It is recommended to get this fixed as soon as possible to avoid recurring problems.

If the window is not damaged or cracked, it may not be necessary to replace it. In reality the frame itself may be in pristine condition so it's more economical to replace the glass unit within the window.

Many companies provide same-day double glazing repair services, but you should be aware of the requirements you have before asking for a quote. Sales reps are known to try and convince people to buy more expensive repairs than what they actually require. It is crucial to know exactly what you want, how much you need to pay and the reason for it. This will allow you to spot high-pressure sales techniques.

It is a good idea to have your double-glazing checked every few years as they will be in good condition and help avoid issues. It is recommended to get an estimate from a reputable firm if you need to repair your double glazing. They'll have the expertise and experience to resolve your issue quickly.

Locks

Whether you need to repair double glazing or have new windows installed, a reliable tradesperson should install a lock to keep your window secure. As part of the quote your installer should go over the various locking options available and choose the one that best suits you and your local crime rate. A popular option is an Espagnolette system which has mushroom headed bolts that engage behind locking points on the frame. They are commonly installed into uPVC doors and windows but they can also be incorporated into aluminium and timber.

Other locks are made for limiting the amount of opening a window. Consider installing a Canzak Window Restriction cable on your casement window. It functions as a door chain lock that can be fitted either on either side of the moving part to prevent it from opening up too much. It's also easy to fit and is among the few types of locks that can be used on casements.

A hinged wedge lock could be used to keep the lower window sash from being lifted enough to allow an intruder into. Cut a length of wood to match the width of the channel that operates the lower sash, fit it in, and tack it to the wall and frame.

You can also install a sash or casement lock. They are more durable than latch locks and are typically used in conjunction with them to secure windows. They are on the side of windows and can be used on both double and single-hung windows and sliding ones too.

There are other ways to make your double glazed windows more secure. One option is to add a shoot bolt locking system that includes bolts that shoot from both sides of the frame to create a strong lock. These are usually offered as an upgrade, and are suitable for both residential and commercial usage.

Make sure that the double-glazing contractor is certified by an industry body such as Checkatrade to ensure they have the knowledge and experience to perform high-quality work in accordance with their standards.