Repair Double Glazing: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

How to Repair double glazing Repair Glazing

Double-glazed windows are strong and secure, however they will wear out with time. Signs that your double glazing requires repair are an odor of draught, or condensation in between the window panes.

The seal that holds the glass panes in place has usually broken. This can be repaired with an encapsulation.

Seals

The seals that are used in double glazing are an essential element of the overall insulation and energy efficiency of the windows. Located between the glass panes and uPVC frames, they provide a vital airtight barrier which assists in keeping out wind, rain, drafts, and condensation which can cause damp walls and windowsills. In addition, the window seals help keep warm air in and cold air out, which can drastically reduce heating bills.

Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for window seals to develop faults. This is usually due to exposure to harsh weather conditions and elements such as high winds, snow and rain. However, it can be due to improper installation or the use of chemicals, such as paint strippers that damage the rubber.

If the window seals fail, moisture and humidity can seep into the glass panes causing misting or fogging. Double glazing may lose its insulating properties if the inert gases between the panes are not present.

If you know what to watch for, you can try to carry out some DIY double-glazed window seal repair. It is best to employ an expert to complete the work. They can repair the windows to restore their insulation and energy efficient properties as well as tackle any unattractive condensation that has developed between the glass panes.

Double-glazed windows often have a warranty, which means they can be replaced or repaired at no cost to the homeowner. It's worth checking the documents that was supplied with your double-glazed window or contacting the company you bought it from to find out if they can offer any assistance. It's also worth checking your home insurance policy to make sure that you're covered in case of any issues with double glazing. If you're covered, it's worth ensuring that you file your claim as soon as you can so that you don't incur unnecessary costs. You can also contact the Building Control Department of your local authority for more advice and support.

Glass

Double glazing isn't impervious to damage and problems may arise. The most common problem is misting. This happens when the seal breaks between two panes and moisture accumulates. It is possible to repair misted double glazing without having to replace the entire window. It is possible to repair it by removing the damaged glass, blowing air in the gap and creating the seal.

Double glazed windows can be made from a range of glass. Some of it is plain, such as mirrors, or safety glass, which is tempered to increase its strength and safety characteristics. Certain types of glass have coatings added to them to improve their properties. This could include solar control glass which reduces glare and blocks heat transfer; extra-clean glass that is self-cleaning and stain-resistant; and chromogenic glass, which changes transparency depending on the temperature.

Some manufacturers also offer high-efficiency double glazed units. These are made of insulated glass that has special films to keep the internal temperatures stable, so heating and cooling systems do not have to perform as hard to maintain comfortable levels in your home.

They are usually an affordable alternative to replacing windows, and they can save you a lot of energy. However, these units do require regular maintenance because the technology they utilize can wear out over time.

The most important thing is to contact the company you bought your double glazing from when you notice an issue. Contact them by phone, and then follow up with a written note or an email. You'll be able to prove that you informed them and agreeing to fix the issue. If you're looking to claim a warranty, this is a must. Many companies offer 10- or 20-year guarantees, while some offer lifetime warranties.

Frame

The frames that support double glazing are made from materials like plastic and wood which are susceptible to being damaged in a variety of ways. Damaged frames can allow cold air to penetrate your home which will drive up your heating bills. Frames can also get bent, twisted, and discoloured as time passes. They may need to be replaced or at least painted and sanded to restore them.

If you have a problem with the frames of your windows, it is recommended to contact a glazier for assistance as they have the skills and tools required to carry out this type of repair. You can make some repairs yourself, however it's generally faster and less expensive to seek out professional advice. A qualified glazier will complete the task correctly and you can claim any costs.

A common indication that your double glazing needs repair is the build-up of condensation between the glass panes. This usually indicates that the seal has failed and allows air to circulate between the panes. This could cause the moisture to fall, making your home feel humid. This needs to be fixed as soon as you can to avoid any further problems.

If the window isn't damaged or cracked, it may not be required to replace it. The frame could be in good condition, so it is more cost-effective to replace the glass inside the window.

Many companies offer a same-day repair for double glazing however, it is essential to know what you require before you ask for a price. Sales representatives are known to try to convince people to purchase more expensive repairs than they actually need. 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 recognize sales techniques that are high-pressure.

It is recommended to have your double-glazing examined every couple of years since they will be in good condition and prevent problems. If you need repairs it is best to contact a reputable company for a quote as they will have the knowledge and experience required to resolve your problems quickly and effectively.

Locks

A reputable tradesperson will install a lock on your window regardless of whether you are installing new windows or repairing double glazing. The installer should go over the various locking systems available as part of the quote and the one that best fits your lifestyle and local crime rates. Espagnolette is a well-known option that uses bolts with a mushroom head which are secured behind locking positions on the frame. They are typically used on upvc window repairs but they can also be added to wood and aluminium.

Other locks are designed to limit the amount a window can open. Consider installing a Canzak Window Restriction cable to your casement window. It functions like a door chain lock that can be fitted either side of the moving portion to prevent it from opening up too much. It is also easy to install and one of the only locks that work with casements.

A hinged wedge lock could be used to stop the lower window sash from being raised enough to permit an intruder to gain access. Cut a piece of wood to the width of the channel that operates the lower sash, fit it into the frame, and then affix it to the frame and wall.

You could also add a keyed lock to your casement or sash window. They are more durable than latch locks and are often coupled with them to help keep windows secure. They are usually located on the side of windows and work on single and double hanging windows, as well as sliding windows.

Other ways to improve the security of your double-glazed windows include adding a shoot bolt lock system. These locks are made by shooting bolts from both ends to create a very robust lock. They are usually available as an upgrade and are suitable for commercial as well as domestic use.

Make sure that the double-glazing contractor is recognized by an industry-specific body like Checkatrade to ensure that they have the knowledge and experience to perform top-quality work in line with their standards.