Why Double Glazing Repair Is Important Double glazing that fails can cause your energy bills to go up. It not only blocks views and reduces natural light but also allows cold air out. It is worth checking whether you're covered by the warranty. A lot of businesses offer warranties of 10-20 years for their windows. Reliable tradespeople can repair double-glazed windows faster than you'd think and with minimal mess. They will also give you the assurance of a warranty that isn't possible to obtain by doing it yourself. Frames The frames of your double-glazed windows should be strong, durable and strong enough to withstand the elements. They are also energy efficient, keeping warm air in during winter and stopping hot air from escape in summer. Over time, however the frames may begin to deteriorate. This may be due to various elements, including the weather and the repeated opening and closing of windows and doors. These issues should not be ignored regardless of the reason. Often it's possible to repair the frames of double glazed windows and doors instead of having to replace them altogether. This can save you a significant amount of money, and ensure that your home remains secure, comfortable and safe. It is recommended to request estimates from several companies when repairing double glazing, since prices can vary significantly. Be aware that the lowest price is not always the best. You should also ask about any guarantees that are included with the work. A survey conducted by SEH BAC found that the most frequently-reported issue that homeowners of double glazing faced post-installation was their door or window becoming difficult to open, with three out of 10 afflicted with this issue. This could be due to the weather, a problem with the hinge or mechanism, or the doors or windows dropping or sagging over time and, in most cases, can be fixed simply by cooling the mechanism or handle down or lubricating it. Double glazing can also be affected by condensation between the panes. This can be due to many reasons like inadequate ventilation or our own habits like closing windows after cooking or showering. This can be a real issue for your home, as it means that the energy efficiency of your windows are lowered and water can get into frames or cills and cause mould or rot. It can be a challenge to repair In some cases, it may mean that the whole pane of glass must be replaced. This is normally an option that is a good idea, as it will give you back the benefits of your original double glazing, as well as increase the insulation of your home. Glass Double glazing is a combination of two panes of glass with an air gap between them. The gap is filled with an inert gas, argon. It acts as an insulation, keeping heat inside and cold outside. These gases, when installed correctly create a barrier that assists in preventing the draughts. This can also improve the energy efficiency of your house. Double-glazed doors and windows are often difficult to open and close. This can be due to various factors, such as warping of the frames or the changing temperatures that cause the material to expand and contract a little. An easy solution to this problem is by wiping the frames with a damp towel. This will ease the movement, and may be sufficient to resolve the issue temporarily. If you notice that it's becoming more difficult and harder to open or close your double glazed unit, or in the event that it has stopped working, it could be time to replace it with a new energy efficient double glazing. Another issue that may occur with double-glazed windows is condensation that forms between the panes of glass. This is a sign that the seals aren't working properly, since the gap between the glass panes is becoming less airtight. The good news is that a specialist tool can be used to make a seal and stop moisture from forming between the panes. If you are unsure whether your double-glazing needs repair or replacement it is best to call the company you purchased it from. They should have given you a warranties, usually of 10 or 20 years but some companies offer lifetime guarantees. Contact them immediately, either by phone or by personal. Then follow up with a letter to ensure that everything is documented. This will make it easier to take action in the event that the business is not helpful or does not resolve the issue. Gaskets The gasket is a rubber seal that wraps around your doors or windows to provide weather protection between the frame and sash or the glass. It blocks drafts, water penetration or condensation from leaking between the panes. It can also guard against damage to the unit itself. So, a top-quality gasket is an essential part of your double glazing system and should be regularly inspected for signs of wear and tear. Window gaskets come in a variety of colors and styles to complement your double-glazed window units. They are typically made of an extremely durable material like TPR (Thermoplastic rubber) or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), depending on your preferred style. Choosing the appropriate gasket for your requirements will ensure optimal function and life span. For instance, a bubble gasket seal is ideal for uPVC and metal frames, whereas wedge seals are ideal for traditional timber or aluminium framed windows. Along with creating an airtight seal window gaskets also help absorb sound waves and provide a quieter home environment. This is particularly important during winter, when cold air may enter through gaps around your frame and window. Replacing gaskets that are worn out is an an inexpensive way to improve your home's temperature during the winter months. It is not always necessary to replace the entire window unit when the gaskets start to deteriorate. Our professional and highly skilled team is able to replace these quickly and cost-effectively to give you an extremely durable and long-lasting weather seal that will make a difference to your home's performance. In cases where a full replacement of the gaskets won't be possible Preformed silicone extrusions, or overlay gaskets can be sprayed directly on the frame and then splice joints for an aesthetic and watertight solution. This is a great option for older windows that have poor tolerances or stress points, or when the seal on the original has deteriorated over time due to exposure to extreme weather conditions. A certified glazier will be able to guide you on the best replacement options for your windows. Locks It's not just a nuisance when a uPVC window isn't shut correctly. It also allows heat and draughts to escape. This can also weaken the security of your home which makes it more prone to burglary. A quality lock will help to solve this problem by ensuring that the windows close correctly. Problems with your uPVC window locks can be extremely frustrating. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved easily. The best way to avoid problems like this is to conduct regular maintenance. This includes oiling the mechanisms, hinges and handles. This will ensure that your windows last longer and also ensure that they function. It is essential to have your uPVC windows or doors fixed as quickly as you can if they aren't locking properly. This will stop the issue from becoming worse and save you a lot of dollars in the long run. You can use a variety of locks for your uPVC windows. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/southampton-double-glazing-repairs-near-me/ -known type of lock is the keyed lock. It can only be opened with the proper key. This kind of lock works well with most double-hung windows and is easy to set up. Another great choice is a mortice lock which is secured to the inside of the frame with a bolt. This type of lock is more secure than a sash or a night latch, which can be removed or broken within a short time. It is much easier to use than a sash lock or night latch, and can be fitted to many types of uPVC windows with double glazing. If you have uPVC window frames that are not closing or opening, you should check the hinges. Also, look at the areas where the hinges pass through the frames. Sometimes a small block of wood or debris can prevent the window from closing properly. In some cases an upgrade part could be all that is needed to fix this issue. Double-glazed windows can be an excellent addition to any home however they could become problematic over time. Fortunately, these issues can be fixed by a professional. An experienced double-glazing repair specialist in your corner will help keep your windows in tip-top form.