Ian Greenhalgh, Author at Cloudy2Clear Windows

Common Window and Door Faults to Watch For: A Quick Guide

Posted September 27, 2018 by Ian Greenhalgh

Even with modern window products and materials, faults can be common. Although many issues are usually harmless and won’t affect the effectiveness of your double or triple glazing, some can become bigger problems in the future, so it’s important to look out for them and be aware when they need addressing.

Windows and doors not opening / closing properly or sticking

Although you may view this as an inconvenience more so than a serious problem, if you have difficulty opening your windows or shutting them, this may make them more susceptible to thieves. Even a slight gap in a window can catch a burglar’s eye; it’s simply not worth putting the job off.

uPVC windows and doors are notorious for expanding and contracting during very hot, as well as very cold, weather. In the UK, our weather conditions can change at the blink of an eye, so if your windows and doors are sticking uncharacteristically, it’s worth making a note of the climate before you make any assumptions about ongoing problems with your windows and doors.

However, most windows stick or don’t close properly because of the locks, handles, or hinges (and if you’re really unlucky, all three!). Not being able to open your windows properly can lead to poor ventilation throughout your home, which could lead to black mould and other unpleasant problems.

At Cloudy2Clear, we offer a comprehensive window lock repairs service for these particular assets; just contact your local branch today to arrange a free, no obligation quotation. We would recommend you call the experts before you try and fix any issues yourself, as sometimes this can worsen the problem and be more expensive in the long run.

Condensation between the panes

Not only can condensation between the panes of your double glazed windows affect your view, it can also affect the energy efficiency of your windows. It can be tempting to leave this kind of issue; after all, you might think it’s only the view from your window that you’re missing out on, but there are potentially more serious issues at stake.

Blown double glazing could lead would-be thieves to believe you’re lax with your security as you don’t look after your property as well as those who have faultless windows. Fully-working double glazing can actually be seen as a deterrent to criminals. You’re more likely to have a working alarm system and will have locked all your windows with keys.

Misty or cloudy double glazing, in the form of condensation between the panes, also could mean that you’re at risk of losing heat from your home, reducing energy efficiency, and potentially increasing your electricity or gas bills over the winter.

Dirty windows and window maintenance

We know – cleaning your windows inside, and especially outside, can be a laborious and time-consuming process and not something you’re going to look forward to doing. However, window maintenance is extremely important for ensuring the longevity of your double or triple glazing, as well as deterring burglars.

Clean windows are an indication that you look after your home, you’re up on your security, and you’re proud of your assets i.e. you’ve ensured that your home is protected.

You can read our window maintenance guide here for more information on how to prolong the life of your double or triple glazing.

To address the issues above, see our range of window services below:

– Double glazing repairs
– Double glazed door repairs
– Insulating glass
– Conservatory window repairs
– Caravan window repairs
– Locks, handles, and hinges
– Broken window repairs
– Velux Window Repairs
– Commercial window repairs
– Soundproofing & noise reduction

Looking after your conservatory

Posted May 11, 2018 by Ian Greenhalgh

Looking after your conservatory properly will allow you to enjoy it to its maximum potential. Lazy brunches in the summer, entertaining friends and family with a birthday barbecue, or just relaxing with a good book. Get the most out of your conservatory with our handy guide to caring for this valued, social and relaxing space.

Keep it clean

Cleaning your windows regularly is a great way of prolonging their life. Warm, soapy water combined with a soft sponge and a light hose down is best practice for cleaning thoroughly. Internally, use a soft cloth and some specialist glass cleaner for maximum effect. There’s no need to use a power/pressure washer, as this can have a detrimental impact on your glass.

Open the windows and doors

A lovely feature on most conservatories is the wide, open doors they have. Opening these brings in the summer air and helps cool your property during the hotter months of the year, creating a lovely, fresh environment. However, when their hinges or handles fail or get a little stiff, it can be very frustrating. Take a look at our locks, handles and hinges repair page to see what we can do to improve your windows and get them in full working order.

Decoration and presentation

A conservatory is the gateway to the garden, bring some of those flowers indoors and transcend the gap between your home and the outdoors. Flowers make for a happier home and create a gentle, relaxing atmosphere. If you want to create the illusion of a bigger garden or space, place a mirror or two around the room to fully exploit the natural light, and accentuate your flowers, conservatory and lawn or patio.

Can’t enjoy the view?

If your windows are looking a little hazy and have misted up, you’ve done your best to clean them and it’s still there, it’s probably because the double glazing has failed. At Cloudy2Clear Windows, we only replace the pane, not the frame, saving you time, money and hassle. Visit our conservatory double glazing repairs page to find out how we can help you!

Replacing failed double glazing makes your house more energy efficient and means that you can get back to enjoying your conservatory quickly. Check out our double glazing repair page to learn more about the benefits of replacing failed double glazing or contact us to book a free no obligation quote.

How long does double glazing last?

Posted May 3, 2018 by Ian Greenhalgh

At Cloudy2Clear, we’re regularly asked the same questions about double glazing. These range from, ‘Is it efficient?’ to the wider, ‘Are the benefits that good?’. In short, both answers are a definite ‘Yes’. ‘How long does double glazing last?’ however, is slightly more complicated.

The general consensus on double glazing lifespan is estimated to be anything between 20 and 35 years depending on the supplier and the fitter. Others even suggest up to and above 40 years in some cases. At Cloudy2Clear, we confidently assure our customers of our professional work ethic and practices, and our product quality with a 25-year guarantee. As we only replace the pane, not the frame, the guarantee relates purely to the glass, not the PVC frame.

When modern double glazing was first introduced in the United States during the 1950s, it caught on relatively quickly. By the late 70s / early 80s, the trend had travelled across the pond to Britain. We’ve already seen the bulk of those windows come to the end of their life and need replacing, and now windows installed in the late 80s and early 90s are also in need of some tender loving care due to ill fitting, poor workmanship, and general wear and tear. Developments have also been made in window technology since their original introduction and represent a better product than before.

Expecting a double-glazing unit to survive for 30 plus years varies greatly dependent on location. Even though windows are designed to withstand the harshest weather, particularly exposed or open areas are more liable to succumb to adverse and challenging conditions. This can make some people consider triple glazing, however this is rarely needed in the United Kingdom. The best practice is to replace any failed double glazing.

In Scandinavia and northern Europe, triple glazing units are common place to help fight the fierce, cold and brisk weather to better insulate homes, the cost and benefits aren’t necessary to the more varied climate experienced in the majority of the United Kingdom. If you live in the UK, then expecting your double glazing to last 25 years is very reasonable.

Installing new double glazing is an investment for the future as it increases your homes energy efficiency and can help cancel out unwanted noise from outdoors. We also offer insulating glass to help keep your bills down and make your home a better and more efficient environment to live in.

If you want to take our offer of a free, no obligation quote, then please don’t hesitate contact us or read more about our double glazing repairs by visiting our dedicated page.

How to keep your home protected and secure

Posted December 18, 2017 by Ian Greenhalgh

Christmas cheer can quickly turn to heartache if your home is targeted by burglars who are often at their busiest when they know a lot of valuable gifts and there for the taking.

With latest figures suggesting that a burglary happens every 40 seconds in the UK, it’s essential to take stock of your home security in order to prevent break-ins. Here are our top tips.

1. The majority of burglars get into homes through windows and doors, so it’s important to make sure they are fitted with secure locks. Canny burglars recognise which types of lock are most secure and will likely avoid them. It’s also worth thinking about upgrading your window security by adding sash jammers for extra protection.

2. It’s sobering to reflect that nearly one in four home burglaries are through first-storey windows.Poorly maintained windows are easier for burglars to access, while double glazing is much safer than single. Also, the more secure your house looks from the street, the less it will attract the attention of potential burglars.

Ensuring your double glazed windows are repaired and in full working order is also crucial to deterring criminals and keeping your home safe. If you have failed or cloudy double glazing, this can be a sign to thieves that you don’t look after your home and are therefore lax with security.

3. Your neighbours can be a helpful defence against a break in, especially if they know you’re away visiting friends and family. If your neighbours spot any suspicious activity while you’re not at home, they can either call you and let you know, or alert the police.

4. Be sure to lock your door – even when you’re in the house. Cheeky thieves can be in and out of your home in a few minutes, taking with them many of your treasured possessions. Some burglars have even got in through large cat and dog flaps, so the best advice is to secure them.

5. An effective home security system is a significant deterrent that makes burglars think again about targeting a property. In a poll of convicted burglars, 60% admitted to being put off by a security system.

6. Fitting a security camera outside your home is another preventative way of dissuading would-be thieves. Faced with having their activities videoed, most burglars will shy away from a property. Similarly, movement-activated external lighting will give burglars even more pause for thought.

7. If your double glazed doors need repairing, for example if your glass has condensation between the panes, then burglars may suspect that you don’t look after your home, and therefore don’t have adequate security precautions in place.

8. If you are going to be away from your home for any length of time, you should think about using timers that turn house lights on and off randomly. Contrary to what some people believe, leaving lights on can actually attract the attention of criminals, especially if they see lights on when it isn’t dark.

If your external security isn’t quite up to snuff, get in touch with us at Cloudy2Clear for a free, no-obligation quote on locks and handles. Call our expert team on 0800 61 21 119 to get started.

Why you should buy a franchise

Posted October 27, 2017 by Ian Greenhalgh

Setting up, operating, and maintaining your own business can be hard work and stressful at times. Although there are several benefits that go alongside this, starting up your own company from scratch is incredibly difficult. In fact, some statistics have revealed that more than half of UK start-ups fail within five years.

However, you can still have that level of independence and responsibility of running your own business, but with the support of an established and reputable company, by owning a franchise. With uncertainty around Brexit, an unstable economic future, and other contributing factors, there are numerous benefits to opening a franchise, rather than negotiating the risk of your own start-up.

We’ve outlined some of the main advantages of owning a franchise to help you make an informed decision.

Independence

One of the main reasons some people hold back from owning a franchise, and open their own business instead, is because of the fear of the lack of independence. But working with a recognised brand can provide you with business security, as well as giving you the freedom to make your own decisions. Whichever company you choose to franchise through, knowing that you have the backing and support of that business, gives you more independence to make bigger and more exciting decisions.

Support

Support is a huge factor when it comes to investing in a franchise. You are buying into a brand that is already succeeding and wants to prolong that success, so you can be sure that you’ll receive the right support from the brand. Being commercially minded and knowing the ins and outs of running a business doesn’t always come naturally, so it’s great to have the expertise and knowledge of a company to guide you along the way. See what one of our franchisees has to say about the support we provide:

Reputation

Your reputation is important and so is that of the brand you’re franchising for. When you choose a franchise to open, you can enjoy the benefit of an established reputation from that brand, as well as marketing teams and legal departments who are keen to offer support wherever possible to ensure that brand name remains reputable.

Reduced risk

As mentioned previously, starting a business from the ground up is difficult, expensive, and incredibly demanding; if you’re prepared to work hard, but work smart, then buying a franchise is often a much more beneficial idea. Seeing success stories of other franchise owners and knowing the business model from the get-go, allows you to gain a lot of insight into the running of the company and how this will fit around your own life. Check out what one of our own successful franchisees has to say about what attracted him to Cloudy2Clear:

Experience

We have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the franchise process, to ensure your journey is as successful as it can be. Our level of experience ensures you have the business opportunities that you require, as well as fulfilling your own career aspirations.

You can also see what our Operations Manager, Kirk Williams, has to say about being part of the Cloudy2Clear family in a recent Which? Trusted Traders article. Visit our dedicated franchise website.

Author: Ian Greenhalgh