Double glazing keeps homes warm and draught free. Over time, however they could begin to fail. This could be due to a variety of reasons like condensation between the window panes, or a blown out window.
Thankfully, this is something that can be easily repaired. In this article, we explore the most common problems with double glazing and how to repair them.
Frames
The frames of your double-glazed windows are an an important component of your doors and windows. They shield the glass panes from moisture, dirt and other contaminants. However, they may get worse as time passes. It is good to know that you can repair them without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows can be restored to their original state by a proper repair. This will improve the appearance of your home and may even increase the value of resales.
A faulty frame is the most common cause of double glazing failure. The problem can result in the loss of heat and draughts. This could lead to increased energy costs and damage to your home's interior. It is essential to repair your double glazing as soon as you can if you spot any faults.
It is recommended to hire a professional double glazing repair company to fix the frames. They will offer a range of options so you can select the one that best meets your requirements. In addition, they'll have the tools needed to carry out the work quickly and efficiently.
One of the main advantages of having your double-glazed windows fixed is that they will be more energy efficient. Double glazing is designed to keep warm air in your home during the winter months and cold air out in summer. If the frame or glass are damaged, it will not be able do this.
UPVC is the most well-known material for double glazing frames. It is due to its the benefits of durability as well as low maintenance. It's also fairly inexpensive. UPVC, however, isn't as flexible as other materials and may not be suitable for every home.
Another option that is popular for double glazing frames is aluminium. Aluminium is lightweight and durable, as well as flexible. However, it may not be the best choice for all homeowners.
Glass
There are times that double-glazed windows are difficult to open. This can be due to condensation between the panes, a damaged seal, or even water intrusion. If you suspect that this is a double-glazing issue, you may want to contact a repair company with years of experience.
The good news is that most problems with double glazed windows can be resolved without the need to replace the entire window. In some instances, such as misty glass it is possible to fix the issue without having to replace the frame. A misted window usually caused by a damaged seal. This is easily fixed.
To fix a misted window, you must first take the smears or condensation from the glass. To accomplish this, lay the double-glazed unit flat on a work surface (ideally with a soft surface such as duvet or a towel between them to avoid scratches), and use a scraper to separate it. Once the two pieces of glass are separated, they can be cleaned using window cleaning spray to remove any marks or smears and to help re-bond them together when repairs are completed.
After both panes have been cleaned and the frame re-glued to the edges of the glass that were sealed may be re-bonded using a specific sealant. After the glass has been cleaned it can be placed back into the frame and new seals can be applied to keep it from misting again.
It is important to note that replacing double-glazed glass is a risk and should only be undertaken by a professional with expertise in the field. The process involves lots of work using highly specific tools and is not normally a DIY project for most people. This is a great opportunity to upgrade your single-glazed window from standard to energy-efficient A-rated, which will lower your heating costs and make your home more comfortable. The cost of this upgrade could be significantly less than that of replacing a whole window.
Locks
Window locks are crucial to protect windows especially in areas that have the possibility of burglaries. They also reduce drafts which are a typical problem in older homes with double glazing. No matter if you have uPVC or double-glazed windows, the lock mechanism could require maintenance from time to the point. There are different methods to repair your window locks based on the type you have installed.
The majority of double-glazed windows come with locks that are keyed which allows them to be closed and opened by inserting the key into the lock cylinder. This lock is found on the side of double-hung windows and is among the most popular kinds of double glazing locks. There are other kinds of window locks that are suitable too, including crank handles and Sash locks.
Double glazed windows that don't close properly can cause drafts inside your home, allowing valuable heat to escape, putting your family at risk of burglary. This problem can also lead to water and damp damage if it's not fixed quickly. If you're looking to find out whether your uPVC window is closing correctly you can try putting credit card between the frame of the window and the frame. If you are able to fit a bank card between the sash and the frame when it's closed, your window in uPVC needs to be adjusted.
Another issue that is common to uPVC windows is the seal that is used to hold the glass together may begin to weaken or shrink. This is a normal occurrence that can be caused by changes in weather conditions and temperatures. As time passes the seal can be brittle or shrink away from the frame. This can allow air to enter the space between the glass panes and create drafts.
The majority of hardware stores have the replacement seal to solve this problem. It's easy to install and stops the loss of energy through your Upvc window.
Seals
Having your double glazing repaired promptly will ensure it is as effective and long-lasting as possible. A professional glazing expert will have the knowledge and tools required to repair damage quickly and safely. They will also provide tips on how to care for and maintain your glass to prolong its lifespan.
Double-glazed windows can't be complete without window seals. They are insulated and keep out moisture. You will notice that your window seals are damaged or no longer effective if you see condensation inside the glass or fogging on the windows. It is essential to repair these issues immediately you notice them since windows won't retain heat or perform as well in reducing your energy bills.
It's time to call an expert for double-glazing repairs if you see fogging, condensation or draughts. It may not be necessary to replace your double glazing in the event that the issue is caused by condensation or moisture, as it will usually clear up with time if you have proper ventilation and a dehumidified home environment.
The increase in energy costs could be a sign that your double-glazed windows require to be replaced or repaired. This is due to the fact that they let warm air from your home to escape, causing your heating system work harder. If you're not sure whether your increased energy bills may be due to broken seals, it is a good idea to contact the company that installed them to find out what the problem might be.
Although you could try to repair uPVC window seals yourself by using various techniques, it's better to leave this kind of repair to professionals as it requires specific skills and knowledge to avoid damage or further damage. If you attempt to repair an unsatisfactory window seal without the proper tools and knowledge could result in more costly repairs in the future. It is important to be aware that not all materials work together. If your window was constructed of timber or wood and you want to replace it with a different type of material. Using a specialist in double glazing repair will ensure you get the correct products to repair your windows and avoid an expensive mistake that can cost more than repairing or replacing the original double-glazed windows.
