Why Double Glazing Repair Is Important
When your double glazing breaks down it doesn't just block views and block natural light, it also lets cold air escape and can skyrocket your energy bills. A lot of companies offer warranties on their windows that range from 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 imagine and with less mess. They will also give you the assurance of a warranty, which is something that isn't possible to obtain when you attempt to fix it yourself.
Frames
The frames of your double-glazed windows should be strong, sturdy and able to withstand the elements. They should also be energy efficient, keeping heat in during the winter months and stopping hot air from escape in summer.
In time the frames may begin to deteriorate. This is caused by many factors, like weather conditions, frequent opening and shutting of doors and windows and repeated use. These issues shouldn't be ignored regardless of the reason.
It's usually possible to repair double-glazed doors and windows instead of replacing them. This will save you a lot of money, and will ensure that your home is safe, comfortable and secure.
When fixing double glazing, it is recommended to obtain multiple quotes since prices can differ greatly. Remember that the lowest quote isn't necessarily the best, and you should also inquire about any guarantees 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 in 10 experiencing this issue. It could be due to the weather, or a fault with the hinge or mechanism or even the windows or doors dropping or sagging over time, and in many cases can be solved by cooling the mechanism or handle down or by oiling it.
Double glazing can also be affected by condensation between the panes. This can occur for a number of reasons like inadequate ventilation or our own habits, like closing windows after showering or cooking. This could be a major issue for your home, as it means that 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 some instances, the entire pane of glass might need to be replaced. This is generally a good option, as you will get the advantages of the original double glazing while enhancing 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 inert gas, Argon. It acts as an insulation, keeping heat inside and cold outside. When installed correctly these gases form a barrier to reduce draughts as well as increase the energy efficiency of your home.
Double glazed window and doors are often difficult to open or close. double glazing repair can be caused by many reasons, including warping of the frames or simply changing temperatures that cause the materials to shrink and expand in a slight way.
An easy solution to this problem is by wiping the frames with a damp cloth. This will help to ease the movement and may suffice to fix the problem temporarily. If you notice that it is getting more difficult to open or close your double glazed unit, or in the event that it has stopped working, it could be time to replace it with a new energy efficient double glazing.
Another issue that may be experienced with double-glazed windows is condensation that forms between the panes of glass. This can be an indication that the seals aren't working properly, since the gap between the glass panes has become less airtight. However, the good part is that it can be fixed with the use of an instrument that is specially designed to be able to make an additional seal and stop moisture from forming between the panes.
If you're unsure if your double glazing requires to be replaced or repaired it is best to contact the company that sold you it. They should have provided you with a warranties, usually of 10 or 20 years, however some companies offer lifetime guarantees. Contact them as soon as you can via phone or by personal. Then follow with a letter to make sure that everything is documented. This will allow you to take action in the event that the company isn't helpful, or fails to solve the issue.
Gaskets
The gasket is a rubber seal that is placed around your windows or doors to offer weather protection between the frame and the sash or glass. It can protect the glass from damage and stop condensation, drafts or water penetration between the panes. A gasket of high-quality is, therefore, an essential part of your double-glazing system and is recommended to be inspected often to determine if it has worn out.
Window gaskets are available in a variety of colours and styles that will complement your double-glazed window units. They are typically made from a durable material such as TPR (Thermoplastic rubber) or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), depending on your preferred style. The right gasket will provide maximum performance and last for a long time. For example, a bubble seal is best for uPVC or metal frames. Likewise, wedge seals are suitable for traditional timber frames and aluminium frames.
In addition to providing an airtight seal, window gaskets can also absorb sound waves and provide an acoustic environment for your home. This is especially important during winter, when cold air can be able to enter through the gaps around your frame and window. Replacing gaskets that have worn out can be an affordable way to improve your home's temperature during the winter months.
It is not always necessary to replace the entire window unit, if the gaskets begin to degrade. Our highly-skilled team can replace these quickly and inexpensively, delivering an extremely durable weather seal that can have an impact on the performance of your home.
In the event that a complete replacement of the gaskets isn't feasible Preformed silicone extrusions, or overlay gaskets may be sprayed directly on the frame and splice joints for an aesthetic and watertight solution. This method is perfect for fixing older windows that have weak tolerances and stress points, or when the original seal has degraded from exposure to extreme weather conditions. A qualified glazier will be able to advise you on the most suitable replacement options for your windows.
Locks
It's not just an inconvenience when a uPVC window doesn't close properly. It can also allow valuable heat and drafts to escape. It also weakens the security of your home which makes your home susceptible to burglary. A high-quality lock can help solve this issue by ensuring that windows shut properly.
Problems with your uPVC window locks can be a major source of frustration. Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be easily fixed. The best method to avoid these issues is to perform regular minor maintenance. Oiling hinges, mechanisms, and handles is important. This will make your windows last longer and remain functional.
If you discover that your uPVC doors or windows aren't locking properly, it's important to fix them immediately. This will stop the problem from getting worse and will save you money in the future. You can use a variety of locks for your uPVC windows. The most popular choice is a keyed lock which can only be opened when the correct key is placed. This type of lock is compatible with most double-hung window styles and is easy to install.
Another great choice is a mortice lock which is secured to the frame's interior with bolts. This type of lock offers more security than a sash latch or night latch that can be easily removed or broken in a short time. It is more user-friendly than an ordinary sash lock or a night latch and can be installed on a variety of uPVC windows that have 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 pass through the frames. A small piece of wood or a piece of debris might prevent the window from closing properly. In some instances an upgrade part could be all that is needed to fix this issue.
Double-glazed windows can be a great addition to any house, but they can cause problems as time passes. Luckily, these problems can be addressed by a professional. A double-glazing specialist with experience can keep your windows in top shape.