Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can help reduce energy bills by creating an insulation. If they're damaged or fail to work properly, they can let heat or cold escape or intrude, costing you more money to keep your home at a pleasant temperature.
Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be repaired which will save you the cost of replacing your double glazing altogether. Here's how to spot and resolve common issues.
Broken Panes
One of the most common issues double-glazed doors and windows encounter is broken glass. If it's a pebble from the lawnmowers that crashes against the window or an accident with a favourite vase, cracks are common to occur and can be extremely annoying. Most cracks are easily repaired. For the best results you should always contact a double glazing professional. They'll have the tools and knowledge to make sure that your repair is as secure and as effective as possible. They'll also give you an assurance for their work which is something you can't get trying to repair the problem yourself.
Mist between your two double-glazed glass panes is another common problem which can be easily addressed by a double glazing repair company. To fix double glazing window repair 'll remove the affected pane of glass and clean the edges, and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After this is completed, a new seal will be put in place and the issue will not recur.
Occasionally, double glazed windows can develop cracks that extend all across both glass panes. This is usually the result of an issue with the window frame and is a more serious issue that needs repair rather than replacing the glass in a single piece.
Cracks in double-glazed windows can be unattractive, and could even be a danger to your safety in the event that they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris through. It is possible to keep cracked windows and doors in working condition by placing the strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help keep superficial cracks from getting worse - especially stress cracks that are caused by the fluctuation in temperature.
A lot of times double glazing repairs require fixing frames that are difficult to open or that have stretched. Fixing these issues by yourself can be very time-consuming and could be risky if you do not have the proper equipment. Try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles using oil if you are able to. If the problem is more serious it is best to contact the company from whom you bought your double glazing. They might be willing to come out and fix it.
Misting
A double glazing specialist can easily fix this problem. It happens when the space between the panes is dirty, which causes drops of water to form inside the glass. It can be very unsightly and therefore it is important to repair it as quickly as you can. It's also a safety issue and could cause injury if people walk past the windows, or even children playing in the area.
The mist that forms between windows can be the result of a range of causes like condensation, air infiltration or even growth of plants. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants like orchids and air plants depend on moisture to survive. If you suspect this, you should contact an expert repair company for double glazing to look into the issue. In some instances windows, they may just require cleaning. However, in other instances, it could be required for one or more panes to be replaced.
Another reason for misting is when the frame gets a little warped. This is common in areas that experience extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract, causing the seal to fail. The good news is that this is generally a simple fix that can be performed in conjunction with other repairs.
Sagging or difficult-to-open double glazing is often the result of temperatures that fluctuate and can be resolved by cleaning the frames with cold water and then lubricating handles hinges, mechanisms, and other points where they go through the frame. This will often help to solve the problem, but if it continues you should consider investigating whether the business you bought the double glazing from has an insurance policy that covers this and what the terms of it.
Repairing double glazing is a cheaper and more practical alternative to replacing your windows. Before you commit to any project, it is crucial to choose an expert that has been verified and checked by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners are often forced to deal with a draught that occurs around their doors. These cold air gusts are an energy waste, and they can also make it difficult to enjoy an inviting, warm home.
Seals are a part of new double-glazed units that keep out cold air and let in heat. These seals may break down over time if they're constantly opened and shut to allow air ventilation. This means that the insulation properties of your double glazing could be diminished, resulting in the cost of heating rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The positive side is that the majority of draughts can be corrected without the need for replacement windows or doors. Lubricating and cleaning the hinges, mechanisms and handles can be helpful. It is also possible to inspect the locks on your sash window in case they're not closing properly. If you do find that your uPVC or double glazing is difficult to open or close it's a good idea to get in touch with the business that you purchased it from to determine what you can do to fix it.
A draught-proofing expert may also assist you with DIY projects around the home. They will have the right tools to repair draughts in any room of your home. Select a contractor that has Checkatrade accreditation. This will ensure that they have been thoroughly vetted and screened.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to locate an expert in draught-proofing. It will display an inventory of traders in your area who are proficient in this type of work.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap, especially if you can locate a professional who provides an initial quote. The cost will differ based on the size of your house and the amount of draughts that are discovered and fixed. However the amount you can save on your energy bills is likely to exceed any costs associated with getting rid of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that keep your multi-pane windows together can fail. This could cause numerous issues, including misting, and even water damage. The good news is that many double glazing companies can fix this for you and save the expense of a full replacement. In some cases this could involve defogging the glass, or replacing the argon units. This is best left to a professional as it is a long procedure that requires a vacuum pump and a specialist to eliminate the moisture and fill the gaps with the argon.
The windows that appear cloudy are a sign that the seals failed, and that the insulating gas argon or Krypton that was vacuum-sealed between two glass panes has been released. The window is susceptible to condensation. This moisture can then etch the glass, resulting in clouds or mists that cannot be removed from either side of the window.
If you have installed your double-glazed unit recently, it's possible that the warranty remains valid. In this instance either the original installer or the manufacturer of the window will cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the broken seal, it is important to know that you will not receive the same energy savings from a brand new replacement unit.
It is usually best to locate a local expert in double glazing repair near me. This way, they will be able to finish the job efficiently and quickly without requiring any major disruption to your home. You can also get assurance that the company will repair the issue without cost if it occurs again in the future.
It is important to remember that a double-glazed repair isn't limited to the replacement of the glass units, but also any door sundries, such as letterboxes and doors - whether they're toughened security glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They may become damaged or worn out over time, and will require replacement in the event that they are difficult to open, drop or sag.