Why Double Glazing Repair Is Important
Double glazing that fails can cause your energy bills to skyrocket. It not only blocks views and reduces sunlight but also lets cold air to escape. It is worth checking if you are covered by the warranty. A lot of businesses offer warranties of 10-20 years for their windows.
Reliable tradespeople can repair your double-glazed windows in a shorter time than you'd expect and with minimal mess. They'll also offer a guarantee that you won't get from doing it yourself.
Frames
Your double-glazed windows' frames should be strong, durable and able to withstand the elements. They must also be energy efficient, allowing the heat in during winter and keeping hot air out during summer.
Over time, frames can get worse. This is due to various factors, like weather conditions, frequent opening and shutting of windows and doors and repeated use. Whatever the reason, these problems are not something you should ignore.
It is often possible to repair the frames of your double glazed windows and doors and doors, instead of needing to replace them completely. This can save you a significant amount of money and ensure that your home stays secure, comfortable and safe.
When fixing double glazing, it is recommended to get multiple quotes since prices can vary greatly. Be aware that the lowest price is not always the best. It is also important to inquire about any guarantees included with the work.
According to a study conducted by SEH BAC, the most common problem experienced by double glazing owners after installation was that their windows or doors were difficult to open. Three out of 10 respondents were able to report this issue. This could be down to the weather, a fault with the hinge or mechanism or the doors or windows dropping or sagging over time, and, in most cases, can be resolved by cooling the handle or mechanism or by oiling it.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is condensation that forms between the panes, which can occur due to many causes, including insufficient ventilation or our habits of closing windows after cooking or showering. This can be a real problem for your home because it means the energy efficiency of your windows are lowered and moisture can leak into the frames or cills which could lead to mould or rot.
It isn't easy to repair, and in certain cases, the entire pane of glass could need to be replaced. This is generally an option that is beneficial, since you'll get the benefits 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 known as argon. It acts as an insulation, keeping heat in and cold out. When installed correctly these gases form a barrier that helps to prevent draughts and increase the efficiency of your home.
Double-glazed windows and doors are typically difficult to open and close. This can be caused by various reasons, such as warping of the frames or simply the change in temperature that cause the materials to shrink and expand little.
Clean the frames with a damp cloth to resolve this issue. This will help ease the movement and could be enough to temporarily resolve the problem. If you notice that it is getting harder and harder to open or close your double glazing, or when it's stopped working, it could be time to replace it with energy efficient double glazing.
Another common issue that can occur with double-glazed windows is condensation between the glass panes. This could be a sign of a problem with the seals, since it means that the gap between the panes of glass is no longer airtight. The good news is that a specialist tool can be used to make an airtight seal to prevent moisture from forming between the panes.
If you aren't sure whether your double glazing is due for replacement or repair and you are unsure, you should contact the company that you bought it from. They should have provided you with an assurance, typically of 10 or 20 years, but some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Contact them immediately via telephone or in person. Follow up with a formal letter to make sure that everything is documented. This will also make it much easier to take action when the company isn't helpful or fails to resolve the issue.
Gaskets
The gasket is a sealing made of rubber. It is placed around your doors and windows to protect against weather between the frame, sash, or glass. It blocks drafts, water permeability or condensation from leaking between the panes and can also protect against damage to the unit itself. A high-quality gasket, therefore, is an important component 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 can be a perfect match for your double-glazed window units. They are constructed from durable materials such as TPR or EPDM depending on the style you prefer. The correct gasket will give maximum performance and last for a long time. For example, a bubble gasket seal is suitable for uPVC and metal frames, whereas wedge seals are best for traditional timber frames or aluminium windows.
Window gaskets not only provide a watertight seal, but also block out sound waves, leading to more peaceful surroundings. This is particularly important during winter when cold air can be able to enter through the gaps around your frame and window. Replacing worn-out gaskets can be an inexpensive way to improve your home's comfort during the winter months.
In most cases, it's not necessary to replace your entire window unit when the gaskets begin to deteriorate. Our highly skilled team can replace these quickly and affordably, providing an extremely durable weather seal that will have a positive 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 sprayed directly on the frame and splice joints for an aesthetic and watertight solution. This option is perfect for older windows that have poor tolerances or stress points, and also where the original seal has become degraded because of exposure to extreme weather conditions. A qualified glazier will be able to guide you on the most appropriate replacement options for your windows.
Locks
A uPVC double-glazed window that doesn't close correctly is not just an inconvenience however it also allows double glazing repair drafts and valuable heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers which makes your home susceptible to burglary. A high-quality lock can solve this issue by ensuring the windows shut properly.
If you have issues with your uPVC window locks can be extremely frustrating. Fortunately, most of these issues can be fixed easily. Regular minor maintenance is the best way to avoid these issues. This includes oiling the hinges, mechanisms and handles. This will ensure that windows last longer and also ensure that they function.
It is essential to have your uPVC doors or windows repaired as soon as you can if they're not locking properly. This will stop the problem from getting worse and will save you money in the future. There are a variety of locks that can be installed on your uPVC double-glazed windows. The most popular option is a lock that is keyed, which can only be opened when the correct key is entered. This type of lock works with the majority of double-hung window styles and is simple to install.
A mortice lock is also a good alternative. It is secured to the frame using bolts. This type of lock gives more security than a sash latch or night latch, which can be removed or broken in a short period of time. It is usually simpler to operate than a sash latch, and can be fitted to most kinds of uPVC double-glazed windows.
If you have window frames made of uPVC that aren't opening or closing, make sure you check the hinges. Also, look at the areas where the hinges pass through the frames. A small piece of wood or debris could stop the window from closing properly. In some instances, replacing the part may suffice to resolve the problem.
Double-glazed windows are a great addition to any home however, they can be a problem over time. The problem can be resolved by an expert. A double-glazing expert with years of experience can help keep your windows in good shape.