How to Repair Double Glazing Double-glazed windows last for a long time and secure, but they can wear and tear over time. Signs that your double-glazed window is in need of repair include the feeling of draught or condensation in between the window panes. Fogging or condensation between the panes typically indicates that the seal that holds the glass panes has deteriorated. Resealing is a solution to this. Seals The seals that are used in double glazing are an essential component of the overall insulation and energy efficiency of windows. They are located between the glass panes and uPVC frames, they provide a vital airtight barrier which helps keep out the elements of wind, rain, drafts, and condensation which can cause damp on windowsills and walls. Additionally, window seals help keep warm air inside and cold air out, which significantly lowers heating costs. It's not uncommon for window seals develop faults. This is often due to weathering and exposure to harsh elements like high winds, rain, ice and snow. However, it can also be due to an improper installation or the use of chemicals like paint strippers that harm the rubber. If the window seals fail, humidity and moisture could seep through the glass panes, causing misting or fogging. It can also affect the insulation properties of double glazing since it will no longer have the inert gas between the panes which helps to retain heat. If you know what to look out for, it's possible to carry out some DIY double-glazed window seal repair. It's best to hire an expert to complete the work. They can repair the windows to restore their insulation and energy efficient properties as well as tackle any unsightly condensation that has developed between the glass panes. Many double-glazed windows are covered by warranty which means they can be fixed or replaced without cost to the homeowner. Review the warranty documents that came with your double glazing, or contact the company from which you purchased it to see whether there is any assistance available. It's also worth looking over your home insurance policy to make sure you're covered for any problems with double glazing. If you do have cover it's important to ensure that you make your claim as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary costs. You can also contact your local authority's Building Control department for further assistance and advice. Glass Double glazing isn't unbreakable and issues with it may arise. The most common problem is misting. This happens when the seal is broken between two panes and water builds up. Fortunately, misted double glass is repairable without the cost of replacing the entire window. It is possible to fix it by removing the affected glass, blowing air in the gap and forming a seal. Double glazed windows can be made from a variety of glass. Some of it is plain, like mirrors or safety glass which is tempered to increase its strength and safety properties. Certain types of glass have coatings added to enhance their properties. This can include solar control glass which reduces glare and blocks heat transfer; extra clean glass, which is stain-resistant and self-cleaning; and the chromogenic glass, which alters transparency based on temperature. Double-glazed units with high efficiency are also available from some manufacturers. These units make use of insulated glass and special films to maintain the internal temperature so that heating and cooling systems don't have to work as hard. Often, these are a cheaper option than replacement windows and offer huge energy savings. However, they do require regular maintenance due to the technologies they utilize can wear out over time. When you notice an issue, it is essential to contact the business where you purchased your double glazing. Contact them via phone, and then follow-up with a written letter or an email. This means you'll have proof that you notified them about the problem and that you and them agreed to fix it. This is vital in order to be able to claim any warranty you have. Many companies offer warranties of either 10 or 20 years, and some even give lifetime assurances. Frame The frames that house the double glazing are made of materials like wood and plastic which can be damaged in a variety of ways. Damaged frames can allow cold air to penetrate your home, which can increase your heating costs. Frames can also be damaged, warped, or discolored as time passes. They might need to be replaced or at the very least cleaned and sanded down to restore them. It is recommended to speak with a glazier if you are experiencing issues with the frames of your windows. They have the necessary skills and tools to repair this kind of issue. You can complete some repairs yourself, but it's generally faster and less expensive to seek out professional advice. Having a qualified glazier do the job will ensure that the repair is done correctly and that you can get reimbursement for any costs. One common sign that your double glazing is in need of repair is the build-up of condensation between the glass panes. This is usually a sign that the seal between the glass panes has broken, allowing air to enter. This can cause the moisture to fall, making your home feel humid. This needs to be fixed as soon as you can to avoid any further problems. If the window isn't damaged or cracked it might not be required to replace it. In fact the frame itself may be in pristine condition so it is more cost-effective to replace the glass unit within the window. Many companies offer same-day double glazing repair services, but you should be aware of what you need prior to requesting a quote. It is not unusual for sales reps to try to talk people into buying more expensive repairs than they need. It is best to understand what you require and what it will cost and why you need it in order to spot a high-pressure sales technique. You should have your double-glazing examined every couple of years to make sure they are in good working condition and to avoid problems. If you do need repairs it is best to seek out a reputable company to get a quote as they will have the experience and knowledge required to resolve your problems quickly and effectively. Locks Whether you need to repair double glazing or you are getting new windows installed, a reputable tradesperson must install a lock to keep your window secure. In the course of quoting, your installer should discuss the different locking systems available and choose the one that best fits your needs and local crime rate. A popular option is an Espagnolette system that has mushroom headed bolts that engage behind locking points on the frame. They are usually used on uPVC but can also be used on aluminium and wood. Other locks are designed to limit the number of times that a window can be opened. If you have a casement style window, think about installing a Canzak Window Restriction Cable, that functions like a chain lock for doors and can be secured on either side of the opening to prevent it from opening too wide. It is also easy to install and is among the only locks that work with casements. For sash windows with hinges, a hinged wedge lock is a quick solution to stop the lower sash from rising enough to allow an intruder enter. Cut a length of wood to the length of the channel that operates the lower sash. Insert it in, and secure it to the frame and wall. You can also put in the sash lock or a casement lock. They are more durable than latch locks and are often used in conjunction with them to ensure the security of windows. These are located on the sides of windows and are used on double and single-hung windows as well as sliding ones. Other ways to improve the security of your double-glazed windows include installing the shoot bolt lock system. This locks are created by bolts being shot from both ends to create a very robust lock. These are usually offered as an upgrade and are suitable for residential and commercial usage. Check that your double-glazing installer is recognized by an industry-specific body like Checkatrade to ensure that they have the expertise and experience to complete high-quality work in accordance with their standards.
double glazing repair
