Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing can help keep your home warm, but it can also develop some frustrating issues over time. These include broken locks, handles or hinges and foggy glasses.
Mist between the glass panes of your double-glazed window is usually a sign that the seal has broken down. Fortunately, this can be fixed quite easily without replacing the entire window.
Frames
Utilizing existing frames for your double glazing can save you money, reduces disruption to your home, and is often the best option. However, if the frames have suffered significant damage or are nearing the end of their life you might benefit from replacing them with newer frames. This is possible together with the repair of your window, which will make it less disruptive.
The condition of the frames can influence how well double-glazing works. This is because the frames are the part that creates the thermal barrier between your home and the elements outside. Frames that are difficult to repair or have become sagging or dragged over time are a few of the most frequent double glazing issues. Depending on the extent of the damage, you might be able to remedy this by wiping down mechanisms, hinges and handles with cold water, or by adjusting screws.
You can also increase the insulation by replacing your window glass and improving seals between panes. It's a simple process that can be done on-site, and can provide an all-time solution to condensation, draughts, or leaks.
It is a good idea to invest in modern energy-saving glass windows if they are composed of thin, single-glazed (annealed) glass. It will help save energy in your home, and also help to reduce your heating bills.
Glass
Double glazing is made up of two glass panes with an intermediate bar that acts as a spacer, and air or gas is then confined in the gap to form an insulating barrier against loss of heat. The system is designed to last, but the seals may fail over time. This can cause fog or moisture between glass panes that could hinder visibility and create drafts.
It is important to know that a majority of these problems are easily repaired with a double-glazing repair business. However, you should bear in mind that the cost of repairing your double glazing will vary based on the problem. Here are some of the most frequent double-glazing repair options:
The seal that keeps the two panes glass together is often broken, which causes mist or water to form between them. During double glazing repair s the damaged pane is removed and hot air will be piped into the area to dry out any moisture before applying the new sealant. The windows are then re-installed and the new sealant will ensure that the air stays in place and your window will continue to function just as it should.
Most repairs to double glazing can be completed in less than an hour, and your windows will appear exactly the same as they did when they were first installed. If your double glazing is beginning to wear out, it's important to get the issues resolved as quickly as you can in order to avoid further damage and to save money in the long term. It is essential to compare quotes from various double glazing companies in order to find the cheapest cost for the repair. You can compare multiple glaziers using an online tool like HouseholdQuotes.
Locks
If your uPVC windows are not closing properly, they can cause draughts and allow warm air to escape from your home. This will waste energy and reduce the security of your home by making it easy for burglars to get in. If the window isn't addressed immediately, it could lead to water damage.
Make sure to check your windows regularly, especially the locks. Sometimes, they become stiff and difficult to open or close and this could be due dirt or even the temperature changes in your area. The best option is to have a regular window check-up from a local specialist who can determine the issue and offer cost-saving prompt solutions.
A Tasker starts by identifying the kind of window you have, then looking at the areas that are damaged. They can tighten loose screws or straighten out broken pieces or re-mount the lock. In some cases the lock might need to be replaced completely.
Owen can replace most makes of uPVC window and door mechanisms. These can include the handles, hinges, striker plates and locks, as well as gearboxes. He is also able to supply and fit additional locks, such as sash jammers for older uPVC casement windows. They are a cost-effective method of bringing them to the same level as the modern multi-point locking systems used on modern uPVC windows.
You can also install key-locking uPVC window restraints to increase safety and security for children. This is useful when your window is in a high-risk area of the home. It will stop them from being able open the window. It will require specialized tools to take it off and replace.
Handles
While you might think that your double glazed windows and doors are indestructible they aren't, like every other part of your home they are prone to a variety of faults and damage. If you're experiencing problems with your double glazing, it's crucial to fix it quickly to prevent it from becoming worse.
Fortunately, most issues can be fixed right at the time of installation, and not repaired, which will save you money and time. Misting can be caused by condensation or water in the space between the two panes.
If your uPVC handles are difficult to turn or are stiff they may require some attention. Stiff and loose uPVC window handles could allow the entry of draughts into your house, causing damage to the frames and diminishing the life of the sealed unit.
The Window Wizard can upgrade your UPVC window and door handles to stainless steel handles that are made in the UK which will give your home a chic and modern appearance. They are available in a wide range of finishes and colours that allows you to pick the one that best fits your home.
Replacement UPVC window handles are available in three types: Cockspur, Spaded and Espag handles. Espag handles have a spindle that operates the lock mechanism inside the frame. They are commonly found on the latest uPVC windows. Cockspur handles have a "spur", which hooks onto a wedge-shaped striker plate that is attached to the frame. They are commonly used on older UPVC windows. Spaded handles were specifically designed for tilt-and-turn windows. They include a key operation to improve security and conform to the insurance requirements for home owners.
If you find that your UPVC handles are squeaking or difficult to turn, this may be due to the build-up of heat or dirt in the handle. Apply lubricant to the handle or clean it with soapy water. If this isn't working it is possible to contact a local repair company to have it repaired for you.
Hinges
When it concerns double glazing repairs window hinges and locking mechanisms can be overlooked. However, they could cause serious issues in the event that they become loose. They can also cause draughts to enter your home, so it is essential to maintain them in a proper manner. In many cases a simple oiling of the mechanism can bring them back to their original state.
Another common issue with double glazed windows is condensation between glass panes. This can cause major problems, and in some cases could compromise your property's insulation. This problem can be resolved by a professional by removing the damaged panel and replacing it with a rated energy efficient unit.
This type of repair is more straightforward than it appears. But, it's an area that should be left to experts who have the expertise and tools to complete the task effectively.
It is important to remember that, even though it will cost more upfront to replace your old double glazing with a brand new unit, you'll be saving money over the long term since modern energy-efficient windows won't require maintenance for a long time. In addition, they'll assist you in saving the cost of your electricity every day. It is therefore a sensible option to think about in all cases if you can afford it. It is recommended to talk with an expert double-glazing company who specializes in this kind of work. They will give you information and estimates on the work you need. They can assist you in determining whether it's better to fix your double-glazing or to replace it.