Blog entry by Adrienne Skuthorp
Why You Should Trust Your
Double Glazing Repairs to Local Experts
It is impossible to replace double glazing by yourself, however an expert glass installer will help make the process simple and secure. It is also worth contacting the company you bought it from if it is still under warranty.
Drilling holes into windows that
are misted will allow the condensation to escape but it's only a
short-term solution. Blown double glazing must be replaced in
order to restore the thermal efficiency.
Broken window panes
When a window pane breaks it creates a visible gap in the double glazing which could result in draughts or moisture. They are not only uncomfortable but they can also cause damage to your home and health. In fact humid environments can lead to frayed frames as well as other structural issues that can be costly to fix.
A damaged window is typically easy to fix if you are aware of the proper procedure. First, take the appropriate precautions to avoid injury such as wearing eye protection and gloves. Take away the glass fragments. After you have removed the shards use a utility knife to cut through any glazing putty and metal glazing points. Once the glass has been removed from the frame, take it off it carefully.
After you have cleaned and sanded your area to remove any paint or gunk then it's time to prepare the area for the new glass. Take measurements of the opening from top to bottom and from side to side. Subtract 1/8 inch to account for any expansion and contraction of the frame. This will ensure that the new glass is fitted correctly.
Then, apply a cord of glaziers compound to the outer edge of the glass-frame joint. Smooth it out using a putty knife, and match the colour of the frame. Once the compound is dry you can paint the compound and the new pane to match the rest of the window.
To stop the crack from spreading, cut a small arc using your knife, just beyond the area that's damaged. This will narrow the crack and prevent it from spreading, thereby saving your window without the need to replace it.
While you might be tempted to do it yourself however, it can be very difficult without the right tools. It's safer and more convenient to find a company that specialises in local double glazing repairs. This will not only spare you a lot of trouble, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired expertly to the highest standard.
Broken seals
A damaged seal could cause windows to lose their insulating properties, resulting in drafts and higher energy bills. It also allows moisture and humidity to seep into the windows, which can cause condensation and fogging. Foggy windows can be difficult to endure, and the problem will only worsen over time when it is not dealt with.
You can prevent window seals from breaking by having your windows professionally installed, and avoid power washing your windows. Even if your windows are in good condition it is essential to get the window seal replaced as soon as you see any signs of a fracture or a leak, like condensation between the glass panes or an increase in your energy costs.
Window seals are constructed of flexible materials that could be damaged as time passes. Older windows are more prone to suffer this issue, as well as windows that have been exposed to a lot of sunlight. Window seals can be damaged due to issues with installation, like gaps and uneven frames.
Although it is possible to repair the seal that is broken on your windows by yourself however, the process could be complicated and can damage other components such as argon within the window. It is recommended to consult an experienced glazier to examine your windows and repair any worn or damaged seals.
After the window seal has been changed The repairing double glazing windows glazing system will function exactly as it is supposed to. It will safeguard your home from unwanted heat losses and cold air infiltration. This will allow you to save money on heating and cooling expenses while keeping your home comfortable.
In most cases, to fix a damaged seal on a window, it is necessary to take the window from the sash. The old sealant needs to be removed as well. When the window is clean and ready to be put back in it will be filled with argon gas before being sealed again. It is possible to complete the work yourself, but it is recommended to call an expert to ensure that the job is done safely and correctly.
Broken door handles
The handle on the front door of your home is an important part of your security. It opens the door and also hooks onto a latch set into the slot of the door frame in order to keep it closed. If the handle isn't secure it could cause problems opening the door. It may be an indication that your locking mechanism isn't working properly.
Fortunately, fixing a broken door handle is relatively easy. In most cases you can tighten the screw holding it in place. If the problem is more severe, you may have to replace the handle.
To begin, you'll need to wedge your door open using a wedge or stop to ensure that it doesn't close when you work on the knob or handle. This will stop it from damaging the paint and also let you access the entire handle or doorknob without worrying about the latch being locked.
The next step is to remove the coverplate that is positioned over the door handle. It may look like a round or rectangular piece of plastic that's designed to conceal screws to make them appear cleaner. Some of them might have a small slot or detent that you can use a flathead screwdriver to press down on to release it. Then, you will have to take off the handle's base and expose the screws holding it in the position.
The cover plate hides most of the screws that hold your door handle or knob in place. When you take off the cover plate, you will be able to easily identify all of the screws and tighten as necessary. It is not recommended to tighten too much the screws, since it could cause damage to the knob or handle. Once all the screws are tight, you can put the base back on and place the knob or handle on top of it to align with the screw holes (if you have visible ones) or the detent hole. Test the handle once you're done to make sure it's working properly.
Scratches and chips
Sometimes, even the most well-maintained double glazing can become damaged. Cracks, chips, and dents could be caused by stray balls or a sudden wind gust. These can affect the performance of your doors and windows which then need to be replaced with new ones. It is crucial to recognize the signs of damage and contact your installer as quickly as possible, preferring to do so in writing. It is helpful if can provide the details of the problem along with photographs if necessary.
Depending on the extent of the chips or scratches, it may be possible to get them repaired without a lot of trouble. If the scratch is large enough to be felt with your fingernail, it might be better to get a glazier. They can use glass polish and elbow grease to remove the scratch. They can also provide some tips for maintaining your doors and windows in good shape.
Also, you should look out for signs that the gas cavity between your window panes is causing a leak. If you see condensation between the window panes, this could indicate that the inert gasses have evaporated and warm indoor air is now circulating through your home. If you notice this issue it is essential to communicate with your installer immediately because this could be covered under your guarantee.
If your repairing double glazing windows-glazed windows have a guarantee, you should be able to get reimbursement for any repair double glazing costs. You may also want to consider switching to a different company that can be trusted to provide high-quality products and excellent customer service. You can check online reviews, check the BBB and ask for references from past customers to ensure you select an installer with a solid reputation for professionalism and quality. You should also inquire about the certifications of major manufacturers and the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance. This will allow you to avoid companies who are not authorized to install repairing double glazing windows-glazed windows.