Why Double Glazing Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing keeps homes warm and draught-free. Over time, however, they may start to fail. This is due to numerous factors, including condensation between windows or even a blown window.
Thankfully, this is something that can be easily repaired. In this article, we look at some of the most frequent double glazing repair issues and how to repair them.
Frames
The frames of double glazing are crucial elements of your windows and door. They support the panes of glass and protect them from moisture, dirt, and other contaminants. They can become damaged over time. It is good to be aware that you can fix them without replacing the entire window. A good repair job will restore your double glazed windows to their original condition. This will enhance the appearance of your home and may even increase the value of your home's resales.
A damaged frame is a common cause of double glazing failure. This can lead to the loss of heat or draughts. This could cost you money on energy bills and may damage the interior of your home. It is crucial to fix your double glazing as soon as you can when you notice any faults.
It is a good idea to hire professional double glazing repair firms to fix the frames. They can provide you with a variety of options so that you can pick the most suitable one for your requirements. Additionally, they will have the necessary tools to complete the task quickly and efficiently.
One of the main advantages of having your double-glazed windows fixed is that they'll be more energy efficient. Double glazing is designed so that it keeps warm air in your home in winter and cool air outside in summer. If the frame or glass are damaged, it will not be able to perform this.
The most well-known choice of double glazing frame material is UPVC. It is due to its a combination of durability and low maintenance. It's also fairly inexpensive. However, UPVC isn't as flexible as other materials and may not be suitable for all homes.
Aluminium is another popular material for double glazing frames. This is due to the fact that it is lightweight and durable however, it might not be the best option for some homeowners due to its inflexibility.
Glass
There are instances that double-glazed windows are difficult to open. This could be due to condensation between the panes, a broken seal or even water ingress. If you suspect there is a problem with your double glazing you may wish 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 cases, like misty glass, it is possible to solve the issue without replacing the frame. A misted window usually caused by a damaged seal. It can be easily repaired.
To repair a misted window, you must first take the smears or condensation from the glass. This can be done by placing the double-glazed unit on a flat bench (ideally with an absorbent, soft surface like a towel or duvet between them to avoid scratches) and using a scraper to break it off from the frame. After the two pieces have been separated and you are able to use window cleaner spray to get rid of any marks or smears. This will assist them to bond again after the repair.
Once both panes of glass have been cleaned and the edges that were fixed to the frame will be re-bonded using a special sealant. Once this has been completed, the glass can then be repaired and new seals put on to ensure that it doesn't get misted again in future.
It is vital to remember that replacing double-glazed glass could be dangerous and should only by done by experienced professionals who have years of experience in this field. The process requires a lot of work with highly specific tools, and is not typically a DIY task for the majority of people. This is an excellent opportunity to upgrade your single-glazed glass from standard to energy-efficient A-rated, which will lower the cost of heating and make your home more comfortable. This could cost considerably less than replacing the entire window.
Locks
Window locks are vital to ensure the security of windows, especially in areas with a risk of break-ins. They also aid in reducing the amount of drafts that enter the home, which is a common issue with double glazing that has been fitted to older homes. Whatever the case, whether you have uPVC or double-glazed windows the lock mechanism may require maintenance from time to time. There are many ways to repair the locks on your windows according to the type of lock that you have installed.
The majority of double-glazed windows come with a keyed locking system 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 among the most common types of double glazing locks. There are also other types of windows locks like crank and sash handles.
Double glazed windows that don't shut properly can create drafts in the home, allowing valuable heat to escape, putting your family at risk of burglary. This problem can also result in damp and water damage if not addressed quickly. A simple test to determine if your uPVC windows are shut properly is to put a credit card between the sash and the frame when it's closed. If you can place an ATM card between the frame and the sash when it's closed, then your window in uPVC needs to be adjusted.
Another common issue with uPVC windows is the seal that is used to hold the glass together may start to perish or shrink. This is a normal thing that can be caused by changing weather conditions and temperatures. Over time the seal could become stiff, or even shrink away from the frame. This will allow air to get into the space between the glass panes and create drafts.
A replacement seal is a simple solution to this problem and is available at a majority of hardware stores. It is simple to install and stops the loss of energy from your uPVC window.
Seals
Repairing your double glazing as soon as you can will ensure it is as efficient and durable as it can be. A professional glazier will have the expertise and equipment needed to repair damages quickly and safely. double glazing repair near me will also be capable of providing you with any guidance on maintenance and care that could assist in prolonging the life of the glass.
Window seals are an important component of double glazed windows as they provide insulation and keep out moisture. If the seals on your windows become damaged or become less effective, you will notice condensation appearing within the glass, and fogging of the windows. It is crucial to fix these issues immediately you notice them because the windows will no longer retain heat or perform as well at reducing your energy bills.
If you notice any signs of condensation, fogging or drafts in between your window frames, it's time to speak with an expert for a double glazing repair. If the issue is condensation or moisture it might not be necessary to replace your double-glazing.
A rise in energy costs may be an indication that your double-glazed windows need to be replaced or repaired. This is because they let warm air from your home to escape, making your heating system work harder. If you are unsure whether your higher energy bill could be due to broken seals, you should contact the company that installed them to determine what the problem might be.
It is possible to repair uPVC seals yourself by using different methods. However, this type repair requires specialized skills and knowledge to avoid further damage. Trying to fix a damaged window seal without the proper tools and training can lead to more expensive repair bills in the future. It's also important to note that not all materials are compatible with one with each other, and you may require a different material if your original window is made from wood or timber. A double glazing specialist will ensure that you receive the right products for your repair, so you don't make costly errors.