Why You Should Trust Your Double Glazing Repair s to Local Experts
Replacing double glazing is not a DIY job however a glass specialist can make it easy and safe. It's also worth checking with the company you bought it from to determine if it's still under warranty.
Drilling holes into windows that are misted will let the condensation out, but it is only a short-term fix. Double glazing that has been blown has to be replaced to restore the thermal efficiency.
Broken window panes
When a window pane is broken, it leaves a gap in the double-glazing that can result in draughts and moisture. They're not only annoying but also can damage your home and health. Damp environments can cause rotted frames, structural problems and other costly repairs.
A damaged window is usually easy to fix if you are aware of the right procedure. Wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself. Then, you can remove the old glass shards. Utilize a utility knife to cut through any glazing points made of metal and glazing putty when you have removed all shards. After the glass is removed from the frame, you can remove it with care.
Once you have cleaned the area and sanded it to get rid of any paint or gunk, it is time to prepare the new glass. Measure the opening from top to bottom, and from side to side. Subtract 1/8 inch to take into account any expansion or contraction of the frame. This will ensure that the glass is correctly installed.
Next, roll a cord of glaziers' compound all around the outside of the glass frame joint and smooth it with your putty knife, ensuring that it matches the color to the rest of the window frame. Once the compound has dried, you can paint the new pane with the same colour as the rest of your window.
To stop the crack from spreading, cut an arc with your utility knife, right beyond the area that's cracked. This will curtail the crack and prevent it from spreading, which will save your window without the necessity of replacing it.
Although you may be tempted to DIY your own repairs however, it can be very difficult if you don't have the right tools. It is safer and easier to contact a professional who specializes in local double-glazing repairs. This will help you save time and money, as well as ensure that your double-glazing is repaired to the highest quality.
Broken seals
A broken seal can cause windows to lose their insulation properties, resulting in drafts and increased energy bills. This lets humidity and moisture into the space between windows, causing fogging and condensation. Foggy windows can be difficult to live with, and the problem will only get worse if it is not addressed.
There are several ways to avoid window seal breakages by having your windows professionally installed and not power-washing your windows. Even if your windows look good, you should get the seals fixed as soon as you can when you notice signs that the seal has broken like condensation on the glass or an increase in your energy bills.
The window seals are constructed of flexible materials which can be damaged as time passes. Older windows are more prone to suffer this problem, as are windows that have been exposed to excessive sunlight. Window seals may fail if there are issues with the installation job like gaps or uneven frames.
While it is possible to repair a broken window seal by yourself, the process is complex and could damage other parts of the windows, for instance the argon gas that is inside them. It is recommended to contact an expert glazier to inspect your windows and fix any worn or damaged seals.
Once the window seal has been replaced, your double glazing system will perform exactly as it should. It will shield your home from unwanted heat losses and cold air infiltration. This will save you money on cooling and heating while ensuring your home is comfortable.
In the majority of cases, in order to repair a broken seal on a window, it is required to remove the window from the sash. The old sealant needs to also be removed. Once the window is cleaned and is ready to be put back in place, it will be filled with argon and sealed again. While it is possible to do this yourself however, it is recommended to hire an experienced glazier to ensure that the job is done properly and safely.
Broken door handles
The handle of the front of your home is a crucial element of your security. It opens the door, and hooks onto a latch placed in the door's slot frame in order to keep it closed. If the handle is loose, this can cause you to have trouble opening the door. It may also be a sign that your locking mechanism is malfunctioning.
Fortunately, fixing a broken door handle is fairly simple. In the majority of cases, you can tighten the screw that holds it in place. If the problem is more serious it may be necessary to replace the handle.
You will need to first wedge the door open using a stop or door wedge to ensure that it doesn't close when working on the knob or handle. This will help prevent the paint from being damaged and allow you to get access to all parts of the doorknob handle without having to worry about the latch.
The next step is to remove the cover plate on the door handle. It may appear to be a round or rectangular piece of plastic that's designed to hide the screws for a cleaner appearance. Some of them may have an elongated slot or detent that you can push down using a flathead in order to release. Then, you'll have to remove the handle's base off and reveal the screws that hold it in place.
Most screws that hold your door handle or doorknob in place are hidden behind the cover plate. After you've removed the cover plate you'll be able to identify each one and tighten them as necessary. You don't want to over-tighten the screws, since it could cause damage to the knob or handle. Once the screws are tightened you can put them back on the base and then place the knob or handle on top. Make sure that the holes of the handle or knob coincide with the detent holes or screw holes. Check the handle after you're done to make sure it's working correctly.
Scratches and Chips
Sometimes, even the best-maintained double glazing can be damaged. Cracks chips, dents, and cracks are caused by stray balls or a sudden wind gust. These damages could have a negative impact on the performance of your doors and windows which will require them to be replaced. It is important to recognise the signs of damage and notify your installer as soon as you can, at least in writing. It will help if you can supply the details of the issue along with photographs if necessary.
Depending on the severity of the scratches or chips, it may be possible to have them repaired without much hassle. If the scratch is severe enough that you can feel it with your fingernail it may be best to get a glazier in to remove it. They will be able to make use of glass polish to remove the scratch. They will also be able to provide some tips for maintaining your doors and windows, which will help keep them in good condition.
Also, you should look out for signs that the gas space between your window panes has sprung and leaking. If you find condensation forming between the panes, it could indicate that the gas used to insulate has evaporated and warm air is making its way into your home. If you spot this issue it is essential to get in touch with your installer immediately since this issue will likely be covered under your warranty.
If your double-glazed windows are covered by a guarantee, you can claim any repair costs. You could also consider switching to a different installer that can be relied upon to deliver high-quality windows and excellent customer service. You can read 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. It is also important to inquire about certifications from major manufacturers as well as the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance. This will enable you to avoid companies that are not authorized to install your double glazing.