How to Repair Double Glazing

Double-glazed windows are strong and secure, however they do wear out over time. Signs that your double-glazed window is in need of repair include an odor of draught, or condensation between the window panes.

Fogging or condensation between the panes typically indicates that the seal holding the glass panes has broken down. This can be fixed by the reseal.

Seals

The seals that are used in double glazing are an essential element of the overall insulation and energy efficiency of windows. They are located between the glass panes of uPVC frames and provide an airtight seal that helps to keep out rain and wind, drafts and condensation which can cause damp on the walls and window sills. Window seals also help to keep cold and warm air separated, which could reduce heating costs.

It's not unusual for window seals develop faults. This is typically due to weathering and exposure to harsh elements such as high winds rain, ice, and snow. It can also be caused by incorrect installation or chemicals like paint strippers that damage the rubber.

When the window seals fail it could cause moisture and humidity may seep through the glass panes, causing fogging or misting on the windows. It could affect the insulation properties of the double glazing since it will no longer have the inert gas between the panes, which assists in retaining heat.

It's possible to carry out some DIY double glazed window seal repairs if you are aware of what to look for. However, it's always best to contact a professional window repair company to carry out the work. They can seal the windows to restore their insulating and energy efficient properties and also eliminate any unsightly condensation that has accumulated between the glass panes.

A lot of double-glazed windows are covered by warranty which means that they can be fixed or replaced without cost to the homeowner. It's worthwhile to review the paperwork that was included with your double glazing or contact the company you purchased it from to see whether they are able to provide any assistance. It's also worth checking your home insurance policy to make sure you're covered for any problems with double glazing. If you're covered, it's worth ensuring that you make your claim promptly in order to avoid any unnecessary expenses. You can also consult your local authority's Building Control department for further advice and support.

Glass

Double glazing can be a problem. The most frequent issue is misting, which happens when the seal between two panes fails and moisture accumulates. Fortunately, misted double glazing is repairable without the cost of replacing the entire window. It is possible to repair it by removing the affected glass, blowing air through the gap and creating the seal.

Double glazed windows can be made from a wide range of glass. Some are simple, such as mirrors or safety glass which is tempered to improve its strength and safety properties. Some types of glass have coatings applied to enhance their properties. Solar control glass can be used to reduce the glare and heat transfer. Extra clean glass is also stain-resistant, self-cleaning and self-cleaning.

Certain manufacturers also produce high-efficiency double glazed units. These units make use of special films and insulated glass to stabilize the internal temperature so that cooling and heating systems do not need to work as hard.

Often, these are an affordable alternative to replacement windows, and they provide excellent energy savings. However, these units do require regular maintenance due to the technologies they utilize can wear out over time.

If you spot an issue, it is essential to contact the business that you bought your double glazing. Contact them by phone, then follow up with a written letter or email. You'll have proof of notifying them of your concerns and agreeing to address the problem. If you want to claim any warranty, this is a must. Many companies offer 10 or 20-year guarantees, and some give lifetime warranties.

Frame

The frames that house the double glazing are constructed out of plastic and wood that can be damaged in many ways. Damaged frames can allow cold air to seep into your home, which can increase the cost of heating. As time passes, frames become warped and twisted. They might need to be replaced or at least sanded down and repainted to make them look better.

It is best to consult a glazier if you are having issues with the frames of your windows. They have the necessary skills and tools to repair this type of problem. You can do some repairs on your own, but it's typically faster and less costly to seek professional advice. A certified glazier will do the task in a professional manner and you can claim any expenses.

One common sign that your double glazing is in need of repair is the appearance of condensation in between the glass panes. This is usually a sign that the seal between the glass panes has broken, allowing air to enter. This results in the water level dropping and can make your room feel draughty. It is a good idea to fix this as soon as you can to avoid any further issues.

If the window is not damaged or replacement cracked it might not be necessary to replace it. In fact the frame itself may be in pristine condition so it is more economical to replace the glass unit within the window.

Many businesses offer same-day double-glazing repair services, but you must know what you require before requesting a quote. Sales reps are known to try and get people to buy more expensive repairs than they actually need. It is best to know what you need and how much it will cost and why you need it in order to detect a sales tactic that is high-pressure.

It is recommended to have your double glazing checked every few years as they will be in good order and help avoid issues. If you do need repairs it is recommended to contact a reputable company for a quote as they will have the knowledge and experience required to resolve your problems quickly and efficiently.

Locks

A reliable tradesperson will put the lock on your window regardless of whether you're installing new windows or repairing double glazing. In the course of quoting your installer should go over the different locking systems available and choose the one that best suits your needs and local crime rate. Espagnolette is a well-known option, which uses mushroom-headed bolts that engage behind the frame's locking positions. They are typically used in upvc window repairs near me doors and windows, but they can also be incorporated into timber and aluminium.

Other locks are designed to limit the amount a window can open. Consider installing a Canzak Window Restriction cable on your casement window. It works like a door chain lock and can be fitted either on either side of the moving part to prevent it from opening too much. It's also very easy to install and is one of the few locks that can be used on casements.

A hinged wedge lock could be used to prevent the lower sash of sash windows from being lifted enough to allow an intruder to gain access. Cut a piece of wood the length of the channel that is used to operate the lower sash. Fit it in and secure it to the wall.

You can also add a sash or casement lock. These are more robust than latch locks and are often paired with them to keep windows secure. They are on the sides of windows and can be used on single and double-hung windows, as well as sliding ones.

There are other ways to make your double-glazed windows more secure including adding a shoot bolt locking system that has bolts that shoot from both sides of the frame to create a sturdy lock. These are usually offered as an upgrade option, and are suitable for both domestic and commercial use.

Verify that your double-glazing installer is accredited by an industry body such as Checkatrade to ensure they have the expertise and experience to complete top-quality work that meets their standards.