Why Double Glazing Repair Is Important
If your double glazing fails, it doesn't just obstruct views and block sunlight, it also lets cold air escape, which can increase your energy bills. A lot of companies offer warranties for their windows of 10 to 20 years. So it's worth checking whether your windows are covered.
Reliable tradespeople will fix your double-glazed windows faster than you think and with less mess. They'll also give you a warranty that you won't get from doing it yourself.
Frames
The frames of your double-glazed windows should be sturdy, strong and capable of enduring the elements. They should also be efficient in energy efficiency, keeping heat in during the winter months and preventing hot air from escaping in summer.
Over time, frames may become damaged. This is due to many factors, like weather conditions, frequent shutting and opening of windows and doors, and frequent use. Whatever the reason this issue isn't something to ignore.
Sometimes, it is possible to repair the frames of double glazed windows and doors instead of having to replace them altogether. This will save you lots of money, and will ensure that your home is safe, comfortable and secure.
When fixing double glazing, it is recommended to get multiple quotes since prices can differ greatly. Remember that the lowest 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 frequent issue double glazing owners experienced post-installation was their door or window becoming difficult to open, with three out of 10 afflicted with this issue. This could be caused by the weather or an issue with the hinge or mechanism. It could also be due to the fact that the windows or doors have sagged or dropped over time.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is condensation that forms between the panes. This can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient ventilation or our habits like leaving windows closed after showering or cooking. This can pose a significant problem for your home as it can compromise the efficiency of windows and allow moisture to leak into cills or frames, which can lead to rot or mould.
This is often very difficult 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 will get the advantages of the original double glazing, while also improving the insulation of your house.
Glass
Double glazing is a combination of two glass panes with an air gap between them. The gap is filled with an inert gas called Argon. It acts as an insulation, keeping heat in and cold out. When they are installed correctly create a barrier that can help to stop the draughts. This will also improve the energy efficiency of your house.
Double-glazed windows and doors are often difficult to open and close. This could be due to many reasons, including warping of the frames or simply changing temperatures that cause the materials to expand and shrink in a slight way.
A simple way to fix this problem is by wiping the frames using a damp cloth. This will help ease the movement, and may be sufficient to temporarily solve the issue. If however, you find that your double glazing is becoming increasingly difficult to open and close or it has stopped working altogether It is time to consider replacing it with a new energy efficient double glazing.
Another common issue that can occur with double-glazed windows is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This can be an indication of an issue with the seals as it means that the space between the panes is no more airtight. However, the good news is that this issue can be fixed with the use of a specialist tool that will be able to make an additional seal and stop moisture forming between the panes.
If you aren't sure if your double glazing is due for repair or replacement, you should always get in touch with the company you bought it from. They should have provided you with a an assurance, typically of 10 or 20 years, however some companies even offer lifetime warranties. It is best to contact them as quickly as possible, via phone or in person and follow by writing a letter to ensure that everything is documented and recorded. This will also make it much easier to take action in the event that the company is not helpful or fails to solve the issue.
Gaskets
The gasket is a type of seal composed of rubber. It is put around your doors and windows to protect you from weather damage between the frame, sash or glass. It can protect the unit from damage and stop condensation, drafts or water leaking between the panes. A high-quality gasket, therefore, is an essential component of your double-glazing system and is recommended to be inspected frequently for signs that it has worn out.
Window gaskets are available in a variety of colors and styles that complement the double-glazed window units you have. They are usually made of an extremely durable material like TPR (Thermoplastic rubber) or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) in accordance with your preferred style. The correct gasket will give maximum performance and last for a long time. For instance, a bubble gasket seal is ideal for uPVC and metal frames, whereas wedge seals are the best for traditional timber or aluminium-framed windows.
As well as creating an airtight seal window gaskets also help absorb sound waves to provide a quieter home environment. This is especially crucial during winter, when cold air can enter your home through gaps between the frame and window. Replacing gaskets that have worn out can be an affordable way to improve your home's comfort during the winter months.
It is not always necessary to replace the entire window unit when the gaskets begin to wear out. Our highly skilled and experienced team can often replace these quickly and inexpensively to offer an extremely durable and long-lasting weather seal that can make a difference to your home's performance.
In cases where a full replacement of the gaskets isn't feasible, preformed silicone extrusions or overlay gaskets can be sprayed directly on the frame and then splice joints to provide an aesthetic and watertight solution. This is an ideal solution for older windows with weak tolerances or stress points, or where the original seal has become degraded due to exposure to extreme weather conditions. A qualified glazier can guide you on the most suitable alternatives for replacement of your window.
Locks
It's not just an inconvenience when a uPVC window won't shut properly. It can also allow valuable heat and drafts to escape. This can also weaken the security of your home which makes it more prone to burglary. A quality lock can help solve this issue by ensuring the windows are shut correctly.
Having problems with your uPVC windows can be frustrating. Fortunately, most of these issues can be resolved easily. Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid these issues. Oiling hinges, mechanisms, and handles is essential. This will make windows last longer and will ensure they are functional.
It's important that you have your uPVC doors or windows repaired as promptly as you can when they're not locking properly. This will stop the issue from getting worse and save you money in the future. You can use a variety of locks on your uPVC windows. The most well-known type of lock is a keyed lock. This locks can only be opened using the right key. This type of lock is compatible with the majority of double-hung window styles and is easy to install.
Another great choice is a mortice lock that is secured to the frame's interior using a bolt. This type of lock provides more security than a sash or night latch that can be easily removed or broken in a short amount of time. It is much easier to use than the sash lock or night latch and is installed on a variety of uPVC windows with double glazing.
If you have uPVC window frames that aren't closing or opening, you should check the hinges. Also, look at the hinges' locations traverse the frames. Sometimes, double glazing repair near me of wood or debris may stop the window from closing properly. In some cases, a replacement part may be all that is needed to fix this issue.
Double-glazed windows are an excellent feature for any home however, they can become problematic with time. Luckily, these problems can be addressed by an expert. A double-glazing specialist with expertise can keep your windows in good shape.