Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing is a thermal barrier that helps reduce energy bills. If they're damaged or fail to work properly, they could let heat or cold escape or enter, costing you more money to keep your home at a pleasant temperature.
Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be fixed which will save you the cost of replacing your double glazing completely. Here's how to spot and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems double-glazed doors and windows encounter is broken glass. Whether it is a pebble from a lawnmower that falls against a window, or an accident with your favorite vase, cracks are easy enough to happen and can be incredibly frustrating. Luckily, local double glazing repairs are easy to repair. It is recommended to seek the advice of a double glazing expert to get the best results. They'll have the tools and know-how to ensure that the repair is safe and effective. You'll be covered by a guarantee for their work, which you won't get if you try to do the repair yourself.
Mist between the two double-glazed glass panes is another common problem which can be easily addressed by a double glazing repair firm. To fix this they'll take off the glass pane that is affected and clean 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 occurring again.
Sometimes, double-glazed windows may develop cracks that extend all across the glass panes. This is usually the result of an issue with the window frame and is a much more serious issue that requires repair rather than replacing a single pane.
Cracks in double-glazed windows are unattractive, and could even pose a risk to safety in the event that they are large enough to let rainwater or debris through. It is possible to keep your broken windows and doors in working in good order by placing the strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can prevent superficial cracks from getting worse, particularly stress cracks caused by changing temperatures.
Double glazing repairs typically involve fixing frames that are difficult to open, or have sagged. If you don't have the proper tools, it can be dangerous and time-consuming to attempt to fix these issues yourself. Try applying lubrication to the hinges, mechanisms, and handles using oil if you can. If the problem is more severe, you should check with the company from which you purchased your double glazing. They might be willing to come out and fix it.
Misting
Misting is a frequent issue for double glazing and it can be easily solved by a tradesperson who specialises in this type of work. It occurs when the space between the panes becomes dirty, resulting in a water droplet inside the glass. It's a very ugly sight and therefore it is important to repair it as quickly as you can. It is also a safety issue and could cause injury when people walk by the windows or even if children are playing in front of them.
The mist that forms between windows can be caused by a variety of things such as condensation, air infiltration, or even growth of plants. The latter is particularly dangerous because epiphytic plants such as orchids and air plants depend on moisture to survive. If you suspect that this is the case, you should contact an expert repair service for double glazing to look into the issue. In most cases, the windows will simply need to be wiped down however, in some instances it might be required to replace one or more of the panes.
Another cause of misting is when the frame becomes slightly distorted. This is usually the case in areas where there is extreme weather, and can cause the frame to expand or shrink and this can cause the seal to fail. This is a fairly easy fix that can be done in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or is sagging could be due to fluctuations in temperature. To solve this problem it is suggested to wipe the frames with cold water and lubricate the handles, mechanisms and hinges, and everywhere they go through the frame. This is often enough to solve the issue but if it continues, then it is worth making sure that the company you purchased the double glazing from has a warranty that covers this and what the conditions of it.
Repairing double glazing is a less expensive and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. Before you decide to do any work, it is essential to choose a contractor that has been verified and verified by Checkatrade.
Draughts
A draught around your doors is among the most common issues double glazing owners have to deal with. These cold winds are a big waste of energy, and they also rob you of the comfortable, warm home environment that you deserve.
Seals are a part of new double-glazed units, which keep out cold air and let in heat. These seals can break down as time passes if they're constantly open and closed to allow air ventilation. This means that the insulation properties of your double-glazed windows could be reduced, leading to the cost of heating rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The positive side is that the majority of draughts can be fixed without the requirement for replacement doors or windows. Cleaning and lubricating handles, hinges and mechanisms can help. You may also want to check your sash window's locks when they're not closing correctly. If you find that your uPVC or double glazing isn't easy to open or close, it's worth getting in touch with the business you bought it from to find out what can be done.
A professional in draught-proofing can assist you with DIY projects around the home. They will have access to special tools that are able to locate and repair the draughts in any area of your home. It is recommended to select a professional with Checkatrade certification as this will assure you that they have been thoroughly checked and vetted.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to find an expert in draught-proofing. This will provide you with a list of local traders who are skilled in this area.
Draught proofing can be fairly cost-effective, especially if locate a professional who offers the service of a free quote. The cost will differ based on the size of your home and the number of draughts that are discovered and repaired. However the amount you could save on your energy bill is likely to exceed any cost associated with the treatment of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that hold your windows together could fail. This can lead to numerous issues, including misting, and even water damage. Many double glazing companies will fix this problem for you, saving you the cost of a total replacement. In some cases this will involve defogging or re-instating argon glass units. This should be performed 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.
Windows that are cloudy are a sure indication that the seals have failed and the insulating argon or Krypton gas that was vacuum sealed between the two panes has leaked out and the window is prone to condensation. The moisture will then etch the glass and cause clouds or mists that is impossible to remove from the window's side or.
If you installed your double glazing in the past, it's possible that the warranty remains valid. In this case, either the original installer or the manufacturer of the window would cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to fix the broken seal, you won't be able to enjoy the same energy savings as a new replacement unit.
Often, the best option is to find a local tradesman who specialises in repairs to double glazing near me. They will be able complete the task quickly, efficiently and without causing any major disruptions to your home. You will also receive assurance that the company will correct the issue for free if the issue occurs again in the future.
It is also worth remembering that a double glazed repair isn't limited to the replacement of the glass units but also includes any door sundries, such as letterboxes and doors - whether they're toughened security glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They can become damaged or worn out over time and will need to be replaced when they are difficult to open, fall or sag.