Why Double Glazing Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing keeps homes warm and free of drafts. Over time, however, they may be at risk of failing. This could be due to a variety of reasons like condensation between the window panes or a blown out window.
This is a problem that can be easily corrected. In this article, we look at the most common problems with double glazing and the best way to repair them.
Frames
The frames of your double glazing are essential components of your windows and doors. They support the inner panes of glass, and protect them from moisture, dirt and other contaminants. They are susceptible to deterioration 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 with a good repair. This will enhance your home's aesthetic appeal and could increase its resale value.
A damaged frame is a typical cause of double glazing failure. The problem could cause drafts and loss of heat. This could lead to increased energy costs and the interior of your home is damaged. It is essential to repair your double glazing as fast as you can when you notice any faults.
You should choose a reputable double glazing repair service to fix the frames. They will offer a wide range of options, so you can select the one that best meets your needs. double glazing repairs near me will also have the equipment required to finish the job quickly.
One of the main benefits of having your double-glazed windows repaired is that they'll be more energy efficient. Double glazing is designed in a way that it can keep warm air in your home in winter and cool air out in summer. If the frame or glass are damaged, they will not be able to do this.
The most popular choice of double glazing frame materials is UPVC. It is popular because it's robust and requires minimal maintenance. It is also relatively inexpensive. UPVC however, isn't as flexible as some other materials, and may not be suitable for every home.
Aluminium is another material that is popular for double glazing frames. Aluminium is lightweight, durable and flexible. However, it may not be the best option for all homeowners.
Glass
Sometimes, double-glazed windows are difficult to open. This can be due condensation between the panes, or a broken seal or even water ingress. If you suspect that this is the case with your double glazing you may wish to contact an experienced repair company.
The positive side is that the majority of problems with double-glazed windows can be resolved without the need for replacement of the entire window. In some instances, such as misty glass it is possible to solve the issue without having to replace the frame. This is because a misty windows is usually the result of poor quality seals and can be fixed easily.
To fix a window that has been misting it is necessary to first take the smears or condensation from the glass. This can be accomplished by placing the double-glazed unit on a flat bench (ideally with an absorbent, soft surface like duvet or towel between them to avoid scratches) and using a scraper to break it off from the frame. Once the two pieces are separated from each other, you can use a window cleaning spray to remove any marks and smears. This will allow them to reconnect after the repair.
After both glass panes have been cleaned and the edges that were sealed to the frame can be re-bonded using a special sealant. After this process is complete the glass can be re-seated and new seals applied to ensure that it does not be misted in the future.
It is vital to know that replacing double glazed glass can be risky and should only be done by a skilled professional who has expertise in the field. It is a complicated process that requires specialized tools and is not a DIY task. This is a fantastic chance to upgrade your single-glazed glass from standard to energy efficient glass A-rated, which can reduce the cost of heating and make your home more comfortable. It's a lot less than replacing the entire window.
Locks
Window locks are crucial to protect windows especially in areas where there is a risk of break-ins. They also reduce drafts, which are a common issue in older homes that have double glazing. Whether you have uPVC windows or double-glazed ones the lock mechanism needs to be replaced from time to time. There are several ways to repair the locks on your windows based on the type of lock that you have installed.
The majority of double-glazed windows use a keyed lock that can be closed and opened by inserting keys into the lock cylinder. The lock is situated on the outside of a double-hung window, and it is one of the most popular types of double glazing locks that are available. There are also other types of window locks including crank and sash handles.
Double-glazed windows that do not shut properly can create drafts in your home, allowing heat to escape and putting your family at risk of burglary. Additionally, this problem can lead to damp and water damage if it is not addressed quickly. If you're looking to find out if your uPVC window is closing properly, try to fit credit card between the frame of the window and the frame. If you are able to fit an ATM card between the frame and the sash when it's closed, then your uPVC window needs to be adjusted.
Another issue that is common to uPVC windows is that the seal that holds the glass together can begin to weaken or shrink. This is an natural process that may be caused by changing temperatures and weather conditions. As time passes the seal may be brittle or shrink away from the frame, which can allow air to pass through the panes of glass and cause draughts.
A replacement seal is a simple solution to this issue and can be found at a majority of hardware stores. It's easy to install and stops energy loss from your uPVC window.
Seals
Repairing your double-glazed windows quickly will ensure that it is as durable and efficient as possible. A professional glazier is knowledgeable and tools to repair damage quickly and safely. They will also be able to provide you with any information regarding maintenance and care that can assist in prolonging the life of the glass.
Double-glazed windows aren't complete without window seals. They are insulated and keep out moisture. If the seals on your windows become damaged or lose their effectiveness, you will notice condensation appearing within the glass, and fogging of the windows. Repair these issues promptly as they will affect the performance of your windows and their capacity to reduce energy costs.
It is time to contact a professional for double glazing repairs if you see fogging, condensation 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 be resolved over time if you maintain proper ventilation and a dehumidified home environment.
However, the rising costs of energy are another sign that double-glazed windows need to be replaced or repaired because they let warm air escape your home causing your heating system to work harder. If you're unsure whether your higher energy costs are due to damaged seals, it's worth contacting the company that installed them to see what the issue might be.
While you can try to repair uPVC window seals yourself by using a variety of techniques, it's better to leave this kind of repair to professionals as it requires specific skills and knowledge to prevent damage or further damage. If you try to fix the window seal that's damaged without the appropriate tools and the proper training this could lead to greater repair costs in the future. It's also important to note that not all materials are compatible with one other and you might need a different material if your original window is made of wood or timber. A double glazing expert will ensure you get the right materials for your repair, so you don't make costly errors.