Why Double Glazing Repair Is Important
When your double glazing fails, it doesn't only block views and hinder natural light, but it also allows cold air to escape and could increase your energy bills. It's worth checking to see whether you're covered by the warranty. A lot of companies offer warranties of 10-20 years for their windows.
The most reliable tradesmen can repair your double-glazed windows more quickly than you think and with less mess. They'll also offer a guarantee that you won't receive from doing it yourself.
Frames
The frames of your double glazed windows should be sturdy, strong and able to withstand the elements. They are also energy efficient, keeping the heat in during winter and preventing hot air from escaping in summer.
Over time, however, these frames can deteriorate. This is caused by various factors, like weather conditions, frequent shutting and opening of windows and doors and repeated use. Regardless of the cause this issue isn't something to be ignored.
It's often possible to repair double-glazed doors and windows, rather than replace them. This will save you a significant amount of money, and ensure that your home remains comfortable, safe and secure.
It is recommended to obtain quotes from a few firms when you are looking to repair double glazing as costs can vary significantly. Be aware that the cheapest quote is not always the most cost-effective. Also, you should inquire about any guarantees included in the work.
A survey conducted by SEH BAC found that the most common issue homeowners who had double glazing experienced after installation was their door or window becoming difficult to open, with three out of 10 experiencing this issue. This could be due to the weather, a fault in the mechanism or hinge or even the doors or windows falling or sagging over time, and, in most cases, can be solved by cooling the handle or mechanism or oiling it.
Double glazing can also be affected by condensation between the panes. This can occur for many reasons like inadequate ventilation or our own habits, like closing windows after cooking or showering. This can pose a significant problem for your home, as it can compromise the efficiency of windows and lead to moisture leaking into the frames or cills which can lead to rot or mould.
It isn't easy to repair and in some instances, the entire pane of glass could need to be replaced. This is typically an option that is beneficial, since you'll enjoy the advantages of the original double glazing while enhancing the insulation of your house.
Glass
Double glazing is the combination of two glass panes with an air gap between them. The gap is filled with an inert inert gas called Argon. It acts as an insulation, keeping heat inside and cold out. When installed correctly these gases form an air barrier that helps prevent draughts and increase the efficiency of your home.
One of the most common problems reported by double glazed owners of doors and windows is that their windows and doors have become difficult to open and close. This can be due to a variety of factors, including warping the frames or changing temperatures that cause the material to expand and shrink slightly.
A simple way to fix this problem is by wiping the frames with a damp cloth. This will help ease the movement, and may be sufficient to temporarily solve the issue. If local double glazing repairs find that your double glazing is becoming increasingly difficult to close and open or it has stopped working altogether Then it's time to consider replacing it with new energy-efficient double glazing.
Another issue that may be experienced with double-glazed windows is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is a sign that the seals are not working properly, since the gap between the glass panes has become less airtight. However, the good news is that this can be rectified with the help of an expert tool that will be able to make an additional seal and stop moisture from forming between the panes.
If you are unsure whether your double-glazing needs repair or replacement it is best to get in touch with the company you purchased it from. You should have received a guarantee from the business you purchased it from. It is typically for 10 or 20 years, however certain companies offer lifetime warranties. It is recommended to contact them as quickly as you can, either via phone or in person and then follow by writing a letter to ensure that all information is documented and recorded. This will also allow you to take action when the company isn't helpful or fails to resolve the problem.
Gaskets
The gasket is a seal made of rubber that goes around your windows or doors to offer weather protection between the frame and sash or glass. It blocks drafts, water penetration or condensation from leaking between the panes. It can also shield against damage to the unit itself. A gasket of high-quality, therefore, is an essential part of your double-glazing system and should be checked frequently to determine if it has been damaged.
Window gaskets come in a variety of colors and styles to match your double glazed window units. They are typically made of a durable material such as TPR (Thermoplastic rubber) or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) in accordance with your preferred style. Choosing the appropriate gasket for your requirements will ensure optimal function and longevity. For instance, a bubble seal is ideal for uPVC or metal frames while wedge seals are suitable for traditional wooden and aluminium frames.
As well as providing an airtight seal, window gaskets also help absorb sound waves and provide peace in the home. This is particularly important during the winter, when cold air can enter your home through gaps around the frame and window. Replacing damaged gaskets can be an inexpensive and effective way to improve the comfort level of your home during colder months.
It's usually not required to replace your entire window unit if gaskets begin to wear out. 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 cases where it is not possible to replace the gaskets, preformed silicon overlays or gaskets may be sprayed directly on the frame and splice joint for an aesthetic solution. This is a great option for fixing older windows that have low tolerances and weak stress points, or in cases where the original sealing has become degraded from exposure to extreme weather conditions. A glazier who is qualified can advise you on the best alternatives for replacement of your window.
Locks
It's not just a nuisance when a uPVC window doesn't close properly. It also allows heat and draughts to escape. This can also weaken the security of your home which makes it more prone to burglary. A high-quality lock can help solve this issue by ensuring the windows shut properly.
Having issues with your uPVC window lock can be extremely frustrating. The majority of these issues are fixable. Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent these issues. This includes oiling the hinges, mechanisms, and handles. This will ensure that your windows last longer and stay functional.
If you notice that your uPVC windows or doors aren't locking properly, it's important to fix them immediately. This will stop the issue from getting worse and save you money in the future. There are many kinds of locks that you can use on your uPVC double-glazed windows. The most well-known is a keyed lock which can only be opened when the correct key is inserted. This kind of lock works well with double-hung windows of all kinds and is easy to install.
A mortice lock is also a good alternative. It is attached to the frame using a bolt. This type of lock offers more security than a sash latch or night latch, which can be removed or broken in a short time. It is more user-friendly than a sash lock or night latch and is fitted to a variety of uPVC windows that have double glazing.
If you have window frames made of uPVC that are not closing or opening, you should check the hinges. Also, look at the areas where the hinges traverse the frames. A tiny piece of wood or a piece of debris may prevent the window from closing properly. In some cases replacing the component may suffice to solve the problem.
Double-glazed windows are a great addition to any home, but they may become problematic with time. These issues can be fixed by a professional. An experienced double-glazing repair expert on your side will help keep your windows in good form.