How to Repair Double Glazing Double-glazed windows are long-lasting and secure, however they tend to wear out over time The signs that your double glazing needs repair include the feeling of draught or condensation between the window panes The seal that holds the glass panes in place is usually damaged This can be fixed by a reseal Seals The seals used with http//historydbdate/indexphptitle=dominguezsparks8316 are an essential part of the overall insulation and energy efficiency of the windows They are located between the glass panes and uPVC frames, they provide an airtight seal that assists in keeping out the elements of wind, rain drafts, condensation, and drafts which can cause damp walls and windowsills The window seals also help keep warm and cold air separate, which can reduce heating costs It's not uncommon for window seals to develop a problem This is typically due to weathering and exposure to harsh elements like high winds or rain, ice or snow It could also be caused by incorrect installation or the use of chemicals such as paint strippers which damage the rubber If the window seals fail, moisture and humidity can seep into the glass panes causing misting or fogging Double glazing can lose its insulating properties if the inert gases between the panes are not present It's possible to make some DIY double-glazed window seal repair if you know what to look out for It's best to hire professionals to do the job They can reseal the windows to restore their insulation and energy efficient qualities as well as tackle any unattractive condensation that has developed between the glass panes Double-glazed windows often come with a guarantee, which means they can be repaired or replaced without cost to the owner It's a good idea to check the warranty paperwork that was supplied with your double-glazed window or contact the company you purchased it from to see whether they can provide any assistance Check your home insurance policy to see if you are covered in the event of issues with double glazing If you're covered, it's important to ensure that your claim is made promptly to avoid unnecessary costs You can also contact the Building Control Department of your local authority for advice and support Glass Double glazing isn't impervious to damage and issues with it may arise The most common issue is misting It happens when the seal between two panes breaks down and moisture accumulates Fortunately, misted double glass can be fixed without the expense of replacing the entire window It is possible to fix it by removing the affected glass, blowing air into the gap, and then creating an airtight seal Glass can be used to make double-glazed windows in different shapes and sizes Some glass is clear like safety or mirrors, but it is tempered to ensure strength and safety Certain kinds of glass are coated to them to improve their properties This can include solar control glass that reduces glare and prevents heat transfer; extra-clean glass, which is self-cleaning and stain-resistant; and chromogenic glass, which changes transparency depending on the temperature Some manufacturers also offer high-efficiency double-glazed units These are made of insulated glass that has special films that help keep the internal temperatures stable, so heating and cooling systems don't have to be as efficient to maintain comfortable levels in your home They are often a cheaper option than replacement windows, and they provide huge energy savings However, they do require proper maintenance, as the technologies they use can become worn out over time When you notice an issue, it is crucial to contact the company that you bought your double glazing Contact them by phone, and then follow up with a written letter or an email You'll have proof of notifying them of your concerns and agreeing to address the problem This is essential for claiming any warranties you have Many companies offer 10 or 20-year guarantees, while some give lifetime warranties Frame The frames that support the double glazing are made from materials such as wood and plastic which can be damaged in a variety of ways Damaged frames may let cold air into your home, which can increase the cost of heating Frames can also become bent, twisted, and discolored as time passes They may require to be replaced or at least sanded down and repainted to repair them It is best to contact a glazier if you are having issues with the frames of your windows They have the necessary skills and tools to repair this kind of issue It is possible to carry out some repairing yourself but it is usually quicker and cheaper to get professional advice A qualified glazier who is trained to do the job will ensure that the repair is done correctly and that you can get reimbursement for any costs One common sign that your double glazing requires repair is the appearance of condensation between the glass panes This is usually a sign that the seal between the glass panes has failed and allowed air to get in This causes the moisture to decrease and can make your home feel cold and stale This issue should be addressed as quickly as possible to avoid any future issues If the window is not cracked or broken, it may not be necessary to replace it In fact the frame itself may be in excellent condition, so it is more cost-effective to replace the glass within the window Many companies will provide a same-day service for double glazing repairs, but it is important to understand what you require before you ask for a price Sales reps are known to attempt to convince people to purchase more expensive repairs than what they actually require It is essential to know what you're looking for, the amount you need to pay and the reason for it This will allow you to spot high-pressure sales techniques You should have your double-glazing checked every few years to ensure that they are in good working order and to prevent problems It is recommended to get an estimate from a reputable firm in case you require repairs to your double glazing They will have the experience and knowledge to resolve your issue quickly Locks A reliable tradesperson will put a lock on your window regardless of whether you're building new windows or repairing double glazing As part of the quote your installer should go over the various locking options available and which one best suits your needs and local crime rate Espagnolette is a popular option that utilizes mushroom-headed bolts that engage behind locking positions on the frame They are usually used in uPVC windows and doors but they can also be added to aluminum and timber Other locks are made to limit the number of times opening a window Consider installing a window lock like a Canzak Restriction cable to your casement window It works like a door chain lock and can be put on either on either side of the moving part to prevent it from opening too much It is also simple to install and one of the few locks that can be used with casements A hinged wedge lock could be used to stop the lower window sash from being lifted enough to allow an intruder to gain access Cut a length of wood to the width of the channel that operates the lower sash Fit it into the frame, and then affix it to the wall and frame You can also add the sash lock or a casement lock They are more durable than latch locks and are typically coupled with them to help ensure the security of windows These are located on the side of windows and are used on double and single-hung windows as well as sliding ones There are other ways to make double-glazed windows more secure including adding a shoot bolt locking system with bolts that shoot from both sides of the frame to create an incredibly robust lock These are typically offered as an upgrade and are suitable for commercial and domestic use Also, make sure that your double glazing installer is accredited by a recognised trade body, such as Checkatrade to ensure that they have the experience and knowledge to complete top-quality work and meet their standards