Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can help reduce the cost of energy by creating a thermal barrier. When they are damaged or fail to work properly, they can let cold or heat escape or get in into your home, causing more expense to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved which will save you the cost of replacing your double glazing completely. Here's how to identify and fix common problems.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems double-glazed doors and windows face is broken glass. It doesn't matter if it's a small piece from the lawnmower that flies against a window or an accident with your favorite vase, cracks are easy to occur and can be extremely annoying. The majority of cracks can be repaired. Always consult a double glazing specialist for the best results. They will have the tools and know-how to ensure that the repair is secure and effective. You'll get a guarantee on their work, which you will not get if you attempt to repair the work yourself.
Mist between your two panes of double-glazed glass is another common problem that can easily be fixed by a double glazing repair company. To fix this they'll take off the affected pane of glass and clean the edges and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. Following this the seal needs to be created to prevent the problem from recurring.
Occasionally, double glazed windows can develop cracks that extend all through both panes of glass. This is usually due to an problem with the window frame. This is a more serious problem that needs to be fixed rather than replacing one glass pane.
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 pass through. It is possible to keep your broken doors and windows in good in good order by placing a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help keep superficial cracks from worsening - especially stress cracks triggered by changing temperatures.
Double glazing repairs usually involve fixing frames which are difficult to open, or have sagged. If you don't own the appropriate tools, it could be dangerous and time-consuming to try and fix these problems yourself. If you're able to, try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil to see if that will help. If the problem is more severe, you should check with the company from whom you purchased your double glazing. They might be willing to come out and fix it.
Misting
A double glazing expert can easily solve this issue. It happens when the gap between the panes becomes dirty and causes a water droplet to be trapped within the glass. It's very unattractive and it's essential to repair it as quickly as you can. This is a security issue as it can be dangerous for people who walk by the windows, or even if kids are playing in front.
The mist that forms between windows can be caused by a number of things, including condensation air infiltration, and even growth of plants. This is especially dangerous since epiphytic plants such as orchids and air plants rely on moisture for survival. If you suspect this is the case, then you should consult a professional repair service for double glazing and ask them to examine the problem. In some instances, the windows may only need to be cleaned. However, in other cases it may be required for one or several panes to be replaced.
Another cause of misting is when the frame becomes slightly warped. This is usually the case in areas that experience extreme weather conditions. It can cause the frame shrink or expand and this can cause the seal to crack. This is a easy fix that can be performed in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or that is sagging could be due to temperature fluctuations. To fix this issue, you should wipe the frames with cold water and lubricate the handles, mechanisms, and hinges, and then everywhere they go through the frame. This can often help 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.
Double repairs to your glazing are a cheaper and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. Before you commit to any project, it is crucial to choose a contractor that has been verified and verified by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners often have to contend with the draught that occurs in their doors. These cold breezes are an energy waste and can prevent you from enjoying a warm, comfortable home.
When new double-glazed units are installed, they come with seals that will keep cold air out and the warmth in. These seals can break down in time if they're continuously opened and shut to allow air flow. This means that the insulation properties of your double glazing could be reduced, leading to the cost of heating rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The majority of draughts can be repaired without having to replace windows or doors. A simple cleaning and lubrication routine on handles, hinges and mechanisms will assist. If your sash windows have trouble closing correctly, you might also want to examine the locks. If you discover that your uPVC or double glazing is difficult to close or open, it's worth getting in touch with the company you purchased it from to find out what they can do.
A professional in draught-proofing can help you with some DIY projects around the home. They'll have access specific tools that are able to find and fix draughts from any location in your home. It is a good idea to choose a tradesperson with Checkatrade certification as this will assure you that they have been thoroughly vetted and checked.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to locate a specialist in draught-proofing. This will bring up the list of local traders who are skilled in this kind of work.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap and affordable, particularly if you find a specialist who offers a free quote service. The cost will differ based on the size of your home and the number of draughts that are discovered and fixed. However, the amount of money you'll save on your energy bill is likely to be more than offset the costs of having your draughts dealt with.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that hold your windows together may fail. This can lead to numerous issues, including misting, and even water damage. The good news is that a lot of double glazing companies can resolve this for you and avoid the cost of a complete replacement. In some instances, this may require defogging or re-instating the glass units made of argon. This should be done by a professional as the process may take some time and requires a special vacuum pump to eliminate water, fill the gap with argon gas and then seal.
Foggy windows are an indication that the seals failed and that the gas that insulates, Krypton or argon which was vacuum-sealed between two glass panes has been released. This leaves your window susceptible to condensation. This moisture can etch the glass, creating an appearance of mist and cloudy on both sides of the windows.
If you've installed your double glazing in the past there is a chance that the warranty is still valid. In this scenario either the original installer or the window manufacturer will cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the broken seal instead, it is crucial to be aware that you won't get the same savings in energy from the brand new replacement unit.
Often, the best alternative is to locate a local tradesman that specializes in double glazing repairs near me. This way, they'll be able to complete the task quickly and efficiently without requiring any major disruption to your home. In addition, you'll often be able to get an assurance from the company you hire to fix the problem for free if it happens 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 doors and letterboxes, regardless of whether they're toughened safety glass or Georgian and leaded effects. They may become damaged or worn out over time and need to be replaced in the event that they are difficult to open, drop or sag.