Why You Should Trust Your Double Glazing Repairs to Local Experts
It's not possible to replace double glazing by yourself, however an experienced glass installer can help make the process simple 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 allow the condensation to escape however it is only a temporary solution. Double glazing that is blown needs to be replaced to restore thermal efficiency.
Broken window panes
If a window pane is broken it creates a visible gap in the double-glazing, which can result in draughts and moisture. These aren't only inconvenient, but can also damage your home and your health. In fact, damp environments can cause frayed frames as well as other structural problems that are costly to fix.
A damaged window is usually easy to fix if you are aware of the right procedure. Wear a pair of gloves and eye protection to protect yourself. Then, take out the glass shards that were left. Make use of a utility blade to cut through any metal glazing points and glazing putty when you have removed all glass shards. After the glass has been removed from the frame, take it off it carefully.
Once you have cleaned the area and sanded the area to remove any gunk or paint, it is time to prepare the new glass. Make sure to measure the opening from side to side and top to bottom and subtract 1/8 inch from both measurements to allow for any expansion or contraction of the frame as time passes. This will ensure that the glass you are replacing is installed correctly.
Then, apply a cord of glaziers' compound to the outside edge of your glass frame. Smooth it out with a putty blade, matching the color of the frame. Once the compound has dried and dried, you can paint the new pane in the same color as the rest of your window.
To stop the crack from spreading, score an arc of a tiny size using a utility knife just beyond the cracked area. This will reduce the crack and prevent it from spreading, thereby saving your window pane without the necessity of replacing it.
Although you might be tempted to try and do it yourself but this is extremely difficult without the right tools. It is safer and easier to contact a professional who is specialized in local double-glazing repairs. This will not only spare you a lot of hassle, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired expertly to the highest standard.
Broken seals
A damaged seal could cause your windows to lose their insulation properties, resulting in drafts and a higher cost for energy. It also allows humidity and moisture to get into the window panes, leading to condensation and fogging. Foggy windows are an inconvenience and will only get worse if you don't take action.
There are many ways to prevent window seal breaks by having your windows professionally installed and not power-washing your windows. However, even if your windows are in good shape it is important to have the window seal repaired immediately if you see any signs of a crack like condensation between the glass panes, or a significant increase in your energy bill.
Window seals are made from flexible materials that could be damaged as time passes. double glazing repairs is more prevalent in older windows, and also windows which have been exposed to sunlight. Window seals could fail due to issues with the installation, such as gaps and uneven frames.
While it is possible to fix damaged window seals on your own however, the process is complicated and could cause damage to other components of the windows, like the argon gas contained within the windows. It is suggested to speak with an expert glazier to inspect your windows and fix any damaged or worn out seals.
After the window seal has been replaced, your double glazing will function as it should, protecting your home from unwanted heat loss and cold air infiltration. This will allow you to save money on heating and cooling expenses while keeping your home comfortable.
In most cases, fixing the window seal that is damaged requires taking the window out of its sash and removing the sealant that was previously used. When the window is clean and ready to be put back in, it will be refilled with argon gas and sealed once more. While it is possible to do this yourself, it is recommended to contact an expert glazier to make sure the work is done correctly and safely.
Broken door handles
The handle for your home's front door is an essential element of your security. It opens the door and also attaches to a latch placed in the slot of the door frame in order to keep it closed. If the handle isn't tight, this can cause you to have trouble opening the door. It may be a sign your locking mechanism is malfunctioning.
Fortunately, fixing a loose door handle is relatively easy. In most cases, you'll need to tighten the screw that holds it in place. If the problem is more severe then you may need to replace the handle.
To begin, you need to wedge your door open with a door wedge or stop to ensure that it doesn't shut while you work 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 coverplate that is positioned over the door handle. This may look like something made of plastic, whether round or rectangular, that is designed to hide screws for a neater appearance. Some may have a tiny slot or detent that you can use a flathead screwdriver press down on to let it go. Then, you'll have to remove the base of the handle off and reveal the screws that hold it in place.
The majority of the screws that keep your door handle or doorknob in place are hidden behind the cover plate. After you remove the cover plate, you will be able to easily see all of the screws and tighten as necessary. Be careful not to tighten too much them, as this may damage the handle or knob. After the screws have been tightened you can replace the base, and then put the knob or handle on the top. Make sure that the holes of the knob or handle coincide with the screw holes or detent holes. After that check the handle to ensure it's working properly.
Chips and scratches
Even the most well-maintained double glazing can be damaged. It's only a few hits from scattered footballs or a sudden blast of wind to cause chips, cracks and scratches. These damage can have a negative effect on the performance of your doors and windows which will require replacement. It is essential to identify the indications of damage and inform your installer as quickly as you can, ideally in writing. You can assist by providing information about the problem and photos as appropriate.
Depending on the degree of the chip or scratch, it may be possible to have them repaired without a lot of trouble. If the scratch is severe enough that you can feel it with your fingernail, it may be best to get a glazier in to get rid of it. They will be able employ glass polish to eliminate it. They can also give you some maintenance tips to keep your windows and doors in good order.
Also, you should look out for signs that the gas cavity between your window panes has sprung and leaking. If you notice condensation developing between the panes, it could indicate that the inert gas has evaporated and warm air is making its way into your home. If you spot this issue, it is imperative to get in touch with your installer right away, as this will likely be covered under your warranty.
If your double-glazed windows are covered by guarantee then you'll be able to claim back any repair costs. You may also want to consider switching to a different installer who can be trusted to deliver high-quality products and excellent customer service. Look up online reviews, verify the BBB or request references from past customers to ensure you choose a reliable and quality firm. In addition, you should always ask whether the company is accredited by major manufacturers as well as Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance certification. This will help you to avoid companies who do not have the authorization to install double glazing.