Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can help reduce the cost of energy by creating a thermal barrier. If they're damaged, or if they are not functioning properly, heat or cold can escape or enter your home, thereby increasing the cost to maintain an ideal temperature.
Thankfully, most of these problems can be repaired and save you the expense of replacing your double-glazing completely. Here's how to spot and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most frequent issues that double-glazed doors and windows confront. Cracks can happen for a variety of reasons. If a pebble from a lawnmower flies into a window, or an accident occurs with a vase. Fortunately, they are usually easy to fix. You should always consult a double glazing specialist to get the best results. They'll have the tools and know-how to ensure the repair is as safe and as effective as possible. They'll also offer a guarantee for their work which is something you won't get attempting the repair yourself.
A double glazing business can repair the mist that is formed between two panes. To fix it they'll take off the glass that has been affected, clean up the edges and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After that the seal needs to be put in place to prevent the issue from happening again.
Sometimes, double-glazed windows may develop cracks that extend all through the glass panes. This is usually the result of an issue in the window frame. It is a much more serious issue that requires repairing than simply replacing the glass in a single piece.
Cracks in double-glazed windows are unattractive, and could even pose a safety risk in the event that they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris through. You can sometimes keep your broken doors and windows in good condition by placing a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help prevent superficial cracks from getting worse, particularly stress cracks caused by changing temperatures.
Often, double glazing repairs will include fixing frames that are difficult to open or have been sagging. Attempting to fix these issues yourself can be very time-consuming and even risky if you don't have the right equipment. Try applying lubrication to the hinges, mechanisms and handles using oil if you can. If the problem is more severe then you should contact the company from whom you purchased your double glazing. They might be willing to come out and fix the issue.
Misting
Misting is a common problem for double glazing, and it is easily fixed by a specialist tradesperson in this kind of work. It happens when the gap between the panes gets dirty, causing the droplet of water to get trapped within the glass. This can be very unappealing and is crucial to have it fixed as soon as possible. This is a safety issue because it could be a risk when people walk past the windows, or if kids are playing in front of it.
The mist between windows can be caused by a variety of things like condensation, air infiltration or even growth of plants. This is especially dangerous because epiphytic plants like orchids and air plants depend on moisture for survival. If you suspect that this is the case is the case, you should call an expert repair service for double glazing to inspect the problem. In most cases, the windows will require cleaning however in some cases it could be necessary to replace one or more of the panes.
Another reason for misting is when the frame is slightly distorted. This is common in areas that experience extreme weather conditions. The frame can expand or contract and cause the seal to fail. This is a fairly simple fix that can be done in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or is sagging can be caused by temperatures that fluctuate. To resolve this issue it is recommended to clean the frames with cold water and grease the handles, mechanisms, and hinges, as well as everywhere they pass through the frame. This is often enough to solve the problem, but if it continues, then it is worth checking whether the company you purchased the double glazing from has an insurance policy that covers this, and what the terms of it.
Repairing double glazing is a more affordable and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. Before committing to any project, it is important to find an expert that has been verified and vetted by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners are often forced to contend with the breeze that is a nuisance at their doors. These cold breezes are an energy waste and can hinder you from enjoying a warm, comfortable home.
Seals are included with new double-glazed units, which keep out cold air and let in warmth. These seals may break down as time passes if they're constantly open and closed to allow air ventilation. This means that the insulating properties of your double-glazed windows could be reduced, which could result in your heating bills going up and your home becoming less comfortable.
Most draughts can be fixed without replacing windows or doors. Cleaning and lubricating hinges, mechanisms and handles can help. If your sash windows are not closing correctly, you might be required to check the locks. If you find that your uPVC double glazing or uPVC windows are difficult to open or shut it is recommended that you contact the company from which you purchased it to inquire about what they can do.
Another alternative is to employ an expert in draught proofing to carry out some DIY work on your home. They will have specialist equipment to correct draughts within any part of your home. Choose a tradesperson who has Checkatrade accreditation. This means they have been thoroughly vetted, and screened.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to locate an expert in draughtproofing. It will display the list of local traders who are skilled in this type of work.
Draught proofing is comparatively inexpensive particularly if you find a specialist who offers an initial quote. The cost will vary based on the size of the house and how many draughts are fixed. However, the amount of money you could save on your energy bill is likely to exceed any costs associated with having your draughts dealt with.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that hold your multi-pane windows together may fail. This could cause numerous issues, including misting, and even water damage. Many double glazing companies can fix this problem for you, thereby avoiding the cost of a total replacement. In some cases, this may involve defogging the glass, or re-instating the argon units. This should be done by a professional, since the process can take a bit of time and requires a specialised vacuum pump to remove moisture, refill the void with argon gas and then seal it.
The appearance of a window that is cloudy indicates that the seals have failed and that the gas that insulates, Krypton or argon which was vacuum-sealed between the two panes of glass has escaped. The window is vulnerable to condensation. This moisture can etch the glass, creating an appearance of mist and cloudy on both sides of the windows.
If you've recently installed your double glazing it is possible that it could remain under warranty, and in this situation, the original installer or window manufacturer may pay for the repair or replacement cost. If double glazing windows repairs decide to repair the damaged seal, you won't receive the same energy savings that you would with a new replacement unit.
The most effective alternative is to locate an expert local tradesman who specializes in double glazing repairs near me. They will be able to complete the job in a short time, efficiently and without causing major disruptions to your home. You will also receive an assurance that the business will repair the issue free of charge if it occurs again in the future.
It is also important to note that a double glazed repair doesn't just refer to the replacement of the glass units but also includes any door sundries, such as letterboxes and doors - whether they're toughened safety glass or Georgian and leaded effects. They can become damaged or worn out over time, and need to be replaced when they become difficult to open, or drop or drop or sag.