Why Double Glazing Repair Is Important
When your double glazing fails, it doesn't just obstruct views and block sunlight, it also allows cold air to escape and could increase your energy bills. It's important to determine whether you're covered under a warranty. A lot of businesses offer warranties of 10-20 years for their windows.
Reliable tradespeople will repair your double-glazed windows quicker than you imagine and with less mess. They'll also provide a guarantee that you will not get by doing it yourself.
Frames
The frames of your double-glazed windows should be strong, sturdy and able to withstand the elements. They must also be energy efficient, keeping the heat in during winter and keeping hot air out in summer.
Over time, however the frames may begin to deteriorate. This can be caused by a variety of factors such as weather conditions, the repeated closing and opening of windows and doors, and frequent use. These problems should not be ignored regardless of their source.
It's usually possible to repair your double-glazed doors and windows rather than replace them. This will save you lots of money and ensure that your home remains safe, comfortable and secure.
When fixing double glazing, it is recommended to get several quotes as prices can differ greatly. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't necessarily the best and you should be sure to inquire about any guarantees that are included with the work.
A survey conducted by SEH BAC found that the most common issue double glazing owners experienced post-installation was their door or window becoming difficult to open, with three out of 10 experiencing this problem. This could be caused by the weather or an issue with the hinge or mechanism. It could also be because the windows or doors have sagged or dropped over time.
Another common issue with double glazing is condensation between the panes. This can be caused by many reasons, including inadequate ventilation or our habits like leaving windows closed after cooking or showering. This can be a serious problem for your home, as it can compromise the energy efficiency of windows and cause moisture to leak into frames or cills, which can cause rot or mould.
It can be a challenge to fix and in some instances may mean that the whole pane of glass has to be replaced. This is typically an excellent option, as you'll get the benefits of the original double glazing while improving the insulation of your home.
Glass
Double glazing is the combination of two panes with an air space between them. The gap is filled with an inert inert gas, argon. It acts as an insulation, keeping heat in and cold out. If installed correctly these gases create a barrier to reduce draughts as well as increase the energy efficiency of your home.
One of the most frequent problems faced by double-glazed owners of doors and windows is that their doors and windows have become difficult to open and close. This can be caused by a number of reasons, such as warping of the frames or simply the change in temperature that cause the materials to expand and shrink in a slight way.
Clean repair double glazing windows with a damp cloth to resolve this issue. This will ease the movement and may be enough to solve the problem temporarily. If you notice that it's becoming more difficult and harder to open or close your double glazing, or in the event that it has stopped working, it may be time to replace it with a new energy efficient double glazing.
Another issue that may occur with double glazed windows is condensation between the panes of glass. This is a sign that the seals are not working properly, since the gap between the glass panes has become less airtight. The good part is that a professional tool can be used to make a seal and stop moisture from forming between panes.
If you're not sure if your double glazing should be repaired or replaced it is best to contact the company that sold you it. They should have provided you with an assurance, typically of 10 or 20 years, but some companies even offer lifetime guarantees. It is best to contact them as soon as you can, whether by telephone or in person, and then follow this with a formal letter to ensure that all information is recorded and documented. This will allow you to take action if the company is unhelpful or fails to solve the problem.
Gaskets
The gasket is a seal made of rubber that goes around your doors or windows to provide protection from weather between the frame and sash or the glass. It can protect the unit from damage and stop drafts, condensation or water leaking between the panes. A gasket of high-quality, therefore, is an essential part of your double-glazing system and must be checked often to determine if it has been damaged.
Window gaskets are available in a variety of colours and styles that will complement the double-glazed window units you have. They are constructed from durable materials such as TPR or EPDM depending on the style you prefer. The right gasket will provide the best performance and durability. For instance bubble seals are ideal for uPVC or metal frames while wedge seals work well with traditional wooden and aluminium frames.
Window gaskets not only provide a watertight seal, but also absorb sound waves, which results in an environment that is quieter. This is especially important in winter months, when cold air can get into your home through the gaps between the frame and window. Replacing gaskets that are worn out is an cheap way to increase your home's temperature during the winter months.
It is not always necessary to replace the entire window unit if the gaskets begin to wear out. Our highly-skilled team can replace them quickly and cost-effectively, providing a high-performance weather seal that will make an impact on the performance of your home.
In the event that full replacement of the gaskets won't be possible preformed silicone extrusions or overlay gaskets can be glued directly onto the frame and splice joints to provide an aesthetic and watertight solution. This is a great option for fixing older windows that have weak tolerances and stress points, or in cases where the original seal has damaged due to exposure to extreme weather conditions. A glazier who is qualified can advise you on the most suitable alternatives for replacing your window.
Locks
It's not just an inconvenience when a uPVC window isn't shut correctly. It also allows valuable warmth and draughts to escape. It can also weaken your home security barriers and make your home more susceptible to burglary. A high-quality lock can help to solve this problem by ensuring that windows are shut properly.
Problems with your uPVC window lock can be extremely frustrating. Fortunately, most of these issues can be resolved easily. Regular minor maintenance is the best method to prevent these issues. Oiling hinges mechanisms, handles, and mechanisms is crucial. This will ensure that your windows last longer and stay functional.
If you discover that your uPVC doors or windows aren't locking properly, it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can. This will stop the problem from getting worse and save you money in the future. There are a variety of locks that can be used on your uPVC double-glazed windows. The most popular option is a keyed lock, which can only be opened when the correct key is entered. This kind lock is compatible with the majority of double-hung window styles and is easy to install.
Another option is a mortice lock which is attached to the frame's inside by bolts. This kind lock is more secure than a sash, or night latch, which can be broken or removed in a short time. It is much easier to use than the sash lock or night latch, and can be installed on a variety of uPVC windows that have double glazing.
If you have window frames made of uPVC that are not closing or opening, check the hinges. Also, check the areas where hinges traverse the frames. Sometimes, a small piece of wood or debris can prevent the window from closing properly. In some cases replacement of the part could suffice to solve the issue.
Double-glazed windows can be a great feature for any home, but they may be a problem over time. Luckily, these problems can be resolved by an expert. A skilled double-glazing repair specialist on your side can help you keep your windows in good condition.