Repairs to Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is a great method to make your home more energy-efficient. Its primary benefit is to retain heat while preventing cold air from entering your property.
Double glazed windows can also reduce noise and increase the value of your home. However, they may be prone to issues from time time. Repairs are often more cost-effective than replacing windows.
Seals
Double glazing uses a variety of seals to ensure that the two panes are securely together and that warm air can be let in while cold air is kept outside. Based on the type of window you have it could require different types of seals. A good quality installer should provide you with the best options for your needs, and explain how your windows are designed to work with their seals.
Windows are coated with protective coatings at the time of manufacture to help ensure their longevity and prevent damage caused by the harsh elements. However, these coatings may wear over time when they are not maintained regularly. If the coatings do begin to wear off, it is vital to repair them before damage occurs to the seals. This will help prevent draughts as well as condensation in double glazing as well as keep your energy efficiency in check.
Oiling the hinges handles, handles and mechanism will often fix double-glazed windows that are difficult to operate or that have sagged or dropped with time. This will make it easier to move the doors or windows and can even resolve the problem completely. If the issue persists, it is best to consult your installer. Certain issues are not fixable, especially when double glazing was installed in an unreliable company.
Misted or cloudy windows are usually caused by a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. This could be a sign of an underlying issue, like excessive drafts or a difference between the temperature of the room. Failing window seals will allow outside air into your home. This will impact the comfort level of your home and also increase the cost of energy.
Resealing your double-glazed windows can be costly. It is also crucial to consider whether your windows require replacement, rather than sealing them. This is especially true when the windows are badly damaged or if the frame is severely rotted. It is also an excellent idea to ensure that your windows are still under warranty, which could lower the cost.
Glass
Double glazing is an excellent way to improve the insulation of your home, particularly when you live in a cold area. This means you can turn your heating down a bit and save money on your energy bills. There are a few issues that could arise when you have double glazed windows and they need to be fixed as soon as is possible. A trusted tradesperson will fix your double-glazed windows quickly and effectively. All you need to do is visit an established website like Checkatrade and you will find tradespeople who have been thoroughly vetted and checked to provide the best service.
One of the main reasons for making repairs to double glazing is that the seals between the panes could break. This can cause mist and condensation. This can be easily fixed, as the glass needs to be removed and hot air introduced to eliminate any moisture. The seal will then be reinstalled and the window sealed to prevent water from getting into the future.
Another issue is that the frame could become difficult to open or have been sagging over time. This is usually easily repaired by lubricating hinges or mechanisms with an appropriate oil. In double glazing repairs Walton-on-Thames may need to be replaced.
The most significant benefit of double glazing is that it blocks out the noise outside. This can be a real benefit for people who live near highways, airports or noisy neighbours. Double glazing can also cut down on medium to high-frequency noises like voices and music and allows you to unwind in your home.
Another advantage is that double glazing helps to protect furniture and ornaments against sun damage. The glass blocks harmful UV rays that can cause the furniture and decorations to fade over time. The additional insulation will help you regulate the temperature of your home. This will allow you to avoid excessive heat in summer and having to use your heater throughout the day during winter. This will make your home more comfortable and can also increase the value of your property.
Frames
If the mechanisms are brittle it might be difficult to open and close double glazing. This can be caused by extreme temperatures or simply ageing. It is possible to try cooling or oiling the mechanism and hinges but it is generally simpler to get the issue fixed by a professional.
The frames of double glazing may also suffer issues, such as misting between the glass panes. This isn't easy to fix yourself but a skilled repairer can create a new seal to stop the misting from recurring.
Even though double-glazed windows are designed to last, it is important to get any repairs completed as soon as you can. This will maintain the efficiency of your window and avoid problems like draughts or the accumulation of moisture in the corners of the frame.
It's also important to note that double-glazed windows generally come with a guarantee and some even come with lifetime warranties, so be sure to check what these cover prior to completing any work. The company that you purchased the double glazing will usually provide contact details and information about any warranties you may have.
It is recommended to contact a reputable tradesperson in case you are having problems with your double-glazed windows. Checkatrade will match you with window experts in your area who have been vetted. You can reach them through our online enquiry form, so it's easy to request a no-cost estimate. You can be sure that the person you choose will have the necessary expertise and experience to carry out the right double-glazing repairs for your home. Click here to find a local double-glazing specialist and learn more about how they can assist you. If you prefer, you can call us at 0800 018 5897 and we'll be glad to recommend a suitable tradesperson. We'll give you an idea based on your criteria and postcode of the most appropriate tradespersons.
Gaskets
The window sealed seal is a crucial component of double glazing. Its purpose is to create a secure seal between the sash frame and preventing air leakage. However, with time, the quality and performance of a gasket can decrease. It is therefore crucial to be aware of signs of deterioration, and to take action immediately.
The most typical sign of a deteriorating gasket is visible streaks of black on the window sill and frame. These stains are a result of the oil leaching from the rubber as it deteriorates. The rubber dries and shrinks. The gaps between the frame and the glass allow air to penetrate the building envelope, causing water damage. There could also be cold spots and draughts in the buildings and rooms with windows.
In the long term the degradation of gaskets can result in increased maintenance costs and energy bills for building owners. Therefore, it is important for building managers to keep records of the damage to gaskets and repairs, and make regular checks of the condition of their double glazing.
It is also important to know that the deterioration of gaskets does not necessarily mean that your double glazing needs replacing. In many instances, a deteriorating seal can be repaired by using overlay components that are glued onto the existing window frames and sash. This is a much cheaper alternative than a full replacement and can reduce repair costs.
Although it is possible to reseal double glazing on your own but it is generally more cost-effective and less hassle to hire professionals to complete the task. Not only will this save you time, it will also ensure that the work is done according to the original specifications. Furthermore, a professional double glazing repair business will be able to provide you some form of warranty on their work. This will give you peace of mind and help to reassure you that the job was done properly. You will be able to access technical assistance in the future, should you require it.