Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can help reduce costs for energy by creating a thermal barrier. When they are damaged or fail to function properly, they could let cold or heat escape or get in, costing you more money to keep your home at a pleasant temperature.
Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved, saving you the cost of replacing your double glazing completely. Here's how to identify and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most frequent issues that double-glazed doors and windows have to deal with. Cracks can happen for a variety of reasons. If a pebble from mowers lands in windows, or an accident occurs when a vase is damaged. Cracks are usually easily repaired. For the best results, you should always consult an expert in double glazing. They'll have the tools and expertise to ensure that your repair is safe and efficient. You'll receive a warranty on their work, which you will not get if you try to repair the work yourself.
The mist that forms between the two panes of double-glazed glass is another issue that can easily be fixed by an expert repair service for double glazing. To do this, they'll take off the affected glass pane clean the edges, then blow hot air into the gap to dry it. Following this the seal needs to be created to prevent the issue from happening again.
Double-glazed windows may develop cracks that extend across both panes. This is usually due to an issue with the structure in the window frame. It is a more serious issue that needs repairing than simply replacing a single pane.
In addition to reducing light and heat transfer, cracks in your double-glazed glass will leave your home looking unsightly and could even be dangerous when the crack is large enough to allow rainwater or debris through. It is possible to keep your cracked windows and doors in good order by applying a strip of strong-hold adhesive tape on both sides. This can help prevent superficial cracks from getting worse, especially stress cracks that are caused by the fluctuation in temperature.
Double glazing repairs typically require fixing frames that are difficult to open or have gaps that have sagged. If you don't have the proper tools, it could be dangerous and time-consuming to attempt to fix these issues yourself. Try applying lubrication to the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil if are able to. If the issue is more severe it is best to contact the company through which 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 can easily be fixed by a tradesperson who specialises in this kind of work. This occurs when the space between the panes is dirty, which causes a water droplet inside the glass. It's very unattractive and it's essential to fix it as soon as you can. This is a safety issue since it could be a danger if people walk by the windows, or even when children play in front.
The mist that forms between windows can be caused by a variety of things including condensation, air infiltration, and even plant growth. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants like orchids and air plants depend on moisture for survival. If you suspect this is the case, you should call an experienced repair service for double glazing to inspect the problem. In certain cases, the windows may only require cleaning. However, in other cases it may be required for one or more panes to be replaced.
Another cause of misting is when the frame is slightly warped. This is a common occurrence in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract, causing the seal to fail. The good news is that this is typically a simple fix and can be completed in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or is sagging is often caused by fluctuations in temperature. To fix this issue it is suggested to wipe the frames with cold water and lubricate the handles, mechanisms and hinges, as well as everywhere they go through the frame. If the problem persists, it's worth checking if the company that sold you the double-glazed unit has an insurance policy that covers this issue and what the conditions are.
Double glazing repairs are a much cheaper and more convenient option than replacing your windows. Before you decide to do any work, it's important to find a contractor that has been verified and vetted by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to contend with the breeze that is a nuisance at their doors. These cold air gusts are an energy waste and could prevent you from enjoying the warmth of your home.
When new double glazed units are installed, they are equipped with seals that keep the cold air out and the warmth in. However, these seals could break down as time passes, particularly when they are constantly opened and closed to allow air ventilation. This means that the insulating properties of your double glazing could be reduced, which could result in the cost of heating rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The good news is that most drafts can be repaired without the need for replacement doors or windows. Lubricating and cleaning the hinges, mechanisms and handles will help. You may also want to check your sash window's locks in case they're not closing properly. If you discover that your uPVC or double glazing isn't easy to open or close, it's worth getting in touch with the business that you purchased it from to see what you can do to fix it.
A draught-proofing expert can also help you with some DIY projects around the home. They'll have access special tools that can be used to locate and repair draughts at any point in your home. Choose a professional who has Checkatrade accreditation. This will ensure that they have been thoroughly vetted and checked.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade website to find an expert in draughtproofing. This will give you the names of local traders who are proficient in this area.
Draught proofing is relatively cost-effective, especially if locate a professional who offers an estimate for free. The cost will vary based on the size of your home and the number of draughts that are found and fixed. The amount of money that you could save by reducing your energy bill will likely more than offset the costs.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that hold your windows together may fail. This can cause various issues like misting, or even water damage. The good news is that many double glazing companies can fix this for you and avoid the expense of a full replacement. In certain cases, this will involve defogging or re-instating argon glass units. This should be left to a professional as it is a long process that requires a vacuum pump as well as a specialist to remove water and fill the voids with Argon.
double glazing window repair are an indication that the seals failed and that the gas used to insulate argon or Krypton that was vacuum-sealed between the two panes of glass has been released. This leaves your window vulnerable to condensation. This moisture can then etch the glass and create an appearance of cloudy or misty that cannot be removed from either side of the window.
If you've recently installed your double glazing it is possible that it could still be under warranty. In this situation, the original installer or manufacturer may pay for the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the broken seal instead, it's important to know that you won't get the same energy savings from a brand new replacement unit.
It is often best to locate a local double glazing repair specialist near me. They will be able complete the job quickly, effectively and without causing major disruptions to your home. In addition, you will often receive an assurance from the company you hire to solve the issue for free if it happens again in the future.
Make sure that double-glazed repairs do not only refer to the replacement glass units, but also door sundries like doors or letterboxes, regardless of whether they're Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They may be damaged or worn out over time, and should be replaced when they become difficult to open or drop or slide.