Ask Me Anything10 Responses To Your Questions About Repair Double Glazing

How to Repair Double Glazing
Double-glazed windows are durable and secure, however they tend to wear out over time. Double glazing that needs repair is identified by a sensation of draught between windows or condensation.
Fogging or condensation between the panes is usually a sign that the seal holding the glass panes together has deteriorated. Resealing can fix this.
Seals
Seals are an essential component of double glazing because they improve the energy efficiency and insulation of windows. They are located between the glass panes of uPVC frames and provide an airtight shield that helps to keep out rain and wind, drafts and condensation which can cause damp on the walls and window sills. Window seals also help to keep warm and cold air separated, which could reduce heating costs.
Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for window seals to fail. This is usually due to weathering and exposure to harsh elements such as high winds or rain, ice or snow. It can also be caused by faulty installation or chemical substances like paint strippers which damage the rubber.
If the window seals are damaged, it could result in moisture and humidity can seep between the glass panes, causing fogging or misting of the windows. Double glazing may lose its insulation properties if the inert gases between the panes are no longer present.
It's possible to carry out some DIY double-glazed window seal repairs if know what to look out for. However, it's always better to call a professional window repair company to complete the task. They can repair windows to improve their energy efficiency and insulating qualities, as well as remove any unsightly condensation between the glass panes.
A lot of double-glazed windows are covered by a warranty which means that they can be replaced or repaired without cost to the homeowner. Check the paperwork that came with your double glazing or contact the company from which you purchased it to see what assistance is available. Examine next page to see if you are covered in the event of issues with double glazing. If you have insurance, it's important to make an insurance claim as soon as you can to avoid unnecessary costs. You can also consult the local authority's Building Control department for further assistance and advice.
Glass
Double glazing isn't indestructible, and problems with it can arise. The most common issue is misting. It happens when the seal between two panes fails and moisture collects. Fortunately, misted double glass is repairable without the expense of replacing the entire window. It is possible to fix it by removing the affected glass, blowing air into the gap and creating an airtight seal.
Glass can be used to make double glazed windows in different shapes and sizes. Some of it is plain, such as mirrors, or safety glass which is tempered to increase its strength and safety characteristics. Some types of glass have coatings added to them to improve their properties. This includes solar control glass that reduces glare and blocks heat transfer; extra clean glass that is self-cleaning and stain-resistant; and the chromogenic glass, which alters transparency according to temperature.
Double-glazed units with high efficiency are also available from certain manufacturers. These are made of insulated glass that has special films to ensure that the internal temperature stays stable, so heating and cooling systems don't have to perform as hard to maintain comfortable levels in your home.
They are usually cheaper than replacing windows, and can save you a lot of energy. They must be maintained correctly in order to preserve their effectiveness in time.
The most important thing to do is contact the company that you bought your double glazing from immediately you spot problems. Contact them via phone, and then follow-up with a written letter or email. This will provide proof that you've informed them about the problem and that you and the company agreed to address the issue. If you want to claim a warranty it is essential to do this. Many companies provide warranties of either 10 or 20 years, and some provide lifetime warranties.
Frame
The frames that support the double glazing are constructed from materials such as plastic and wood that can be damaged in many ways. Fragments that are damaged could allow cold air to enter your home, which will increase the cost of heating. Over time, frames can become warped and twisted. It is possible to replace them, or at a minimum sand down and re-paint them to restore their appearance.
If you are having issues with the frames of your windows, it is best to call a glazier for help because they have the expertise and equipment required to perform this type of repair. You can complete some repairs on your own, but it's generally faster and less expensive to seek advice from a professional. A qualified glazier can complete the job properly and you can claim any costs.
Condensation between panes of glass is a typical sign that double glazing requires repair. This usually means that the seal has failed and allows air to move between the panes. This causes the moisture to drop and can make your home feel cold and stale. This should be repaired as quickly as you can to avoid further issues.
It is not always required to replace the entire window, as long as it hasn't been broken or cracked. The frame may be in excellent condition, so it is more efficient to replace the glass within the window.
Many companies will offer an same-day repair service for double glazing, but it is important to know what you require before requesting a quote. It is not unusual for sales reps to attempt to talk people into buying more expensive repairs than they need. It is a good idea to know what you need, how much it should cost and why you need it in order to identify a high-pressure sales strategy.
Double-glazing should be examined every couple of years to ensure they are in good condition and to avoid issues. If you do need repairs it is recommended that you get in touch with a reputable business for an estimate since they have the knowledge and experience needed to resolve your issues quickly and effectively.
Locks
If you're looking to fix double glazing or are having new windows installed, a reliable tradesperson must install a lock to keep your window secure. The installer should go over the various locking options as part of the quote and what best suits your living arrangements and the local crime rates. Espagnolette is a very popular choice that uses bolts with a mushroom head which are secured behind the frame's locking points. They are commonly fitted into uPVC doors and windows, but they can also be incorporated into timber and aluminium.
Other locks are designed to limit the amount windows can open. Consider installing a Canzak Window Restriction cable to your casement window. It functions as a door chain lock and can be installed either side of the opening to stop it from opening up too much. It's also easy to fit and one of the few locks that can be used on casements.
For windows with sash windows A hinged wedge lock is a simple fix to stop the lower sash from lifting enough to allow an intruder enter. Cut a piece of wood to the length of the channel which operates the lower sash. Fit it in, and tack it to the frame and wall.
You can also put in an sash or a casement lock. These are stronger than latch locks, and are often utilized in conjunction with them to secure windows. They are found on the outside of a window and are used on double and single hung windows as well as sliding windows.
There are other ways to make your double-glazed windows more secure. One option is to add a shoot bolt locking system with bolts that shoot from both sides of the frame to create an extremely strong lock. They are usually available as an upgrade option, and are suitable for both commercial and domestic use.
Verify that your double-glazing installer is accredited by an industry body such as Checkatrade to ensure they have the knowledge and experience to complete top-quality work in line with their standards.