Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates an insulation layer to help lower energy costs. If double glazing repairers damaged or fail to function properly, they could let cold or heat escape or intrude into your home, causing more expense to keep your home at a pleasant temperature.
Thankfully, most of these problems can be fixed, saving you the expense of replacing your double glazing altogether. Here's how you can identify and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most frequent issues that double-glazed windows and doors confront. Cracks can occur for many reasons. If a pebble from mowers lands in a window or a collision occurs with a vase. Most cracks are easily repaired. Always seek the advice of a double glazing expert to get the best results. They'll have the tools and knowledge to make sure the repair is as safe and as efficient as is possible. You'll receive a warranty on their work, which you won't get if you try to repair the work yourself.
Double glazing companies can eliminate the mist that forms between two panes. To fix this they'll remove the glass that has been affected and clean the edges and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After this an additional seal must be made to stop the issue from happening again.
Occasionally, double glazed windows can form cracks that go all through both panes of glass. This is usually caused by a structural issue with the window frame. This is an even more serious issue that requires repair than just replacing a single glass pane.
In addition to reducing heat and light transfer, cracks in your double-glazed glass can cause your home to look unsightly and could even be dangerous when the crack is large enough to allow debris or rainwater 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 that are caused by fluctuating temperatures.
Often, double glazing repairs will involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or that have been sagging. Fixing these issues by yourself is time-consuming and potentially dangerous if you don't have the right equipment. Try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil if can. If the problem is more serious then you should contact the company from whom you purchased your double glazing - they might be willing to come out and repair it.
Misting
Misting is a frequent issue for double glazing, and it is easily fixed by a professional who specializes in this kind of work. It occurs when the space between the panes is dirty and it causes the droplet of water to get trapped inside the glass. It's very unattractive and it's essential to fix it as soon as you can. It is also a safety issue and could cause injury in the event that people walk by the windows, or even if children are playing in the area.
The mist that forms between windows can be the result of a range of causes, including condensation, air infiltration or even the growth of plants. This is especially hazardous due to epiphytic plants, such as orchids and airplants require moisture for their survival. If you suspect that this is the case is the case, you should call an expert double glazing repair company to examine the issue. 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 becomes slightly warped. This is typical in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame can expand or contract which causes the seal to fail. This is a relatively simple fix that can be carried out in conjunction with other repairs.
Sagging or difficult-to-open double glazing is often the result of temperature fluctuations. It can be resolved by wiping the frames down with cold water and lubricating handles, mechanisms, hinges and anywhere where they pass through the frame. This is often enough to resolve the issue, however if it persists you should consider investigating whether the business that you bought the double-glazed from has a warranty that covers this and what the conditions of it.
Repairing double glazing is a cheaper and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. Before you commit to any project, it is essential to choose a contractor who has been vetted and verified by Checkatrade.
Draughts
A draught around your doors is one of the most common issues double glazing owners must face. These gusts of cold air are a major waste of energy, and they also deprive you of the cozy, warm home you deserve.
When new double glazed units are installed, they are equipped with seals that will keep the cold air out and the warmth in. However, these seals may be damaged in time, particularly when they are continuously opened and closed to allow for air ventilation. The insulating properties may be reduced. This could result in more expensive heating bills and a more uncomfortable home.
The majority of draughts can be repaired without the need to replace windows or doors. A simple cleaning and lubricating routine on the hinges, mechanisms and handles will assist. If your sash windows have trouble closing correctly, you might also need to check the locks. If you discover that your uPVC or double glazing is difficult to open or close it's a good idea to get in touch with the company that you purchased it from to find out what they can do.
A draught-proofing expert can also assist you with DIY projects around the house. They will have the right tools to repair draughts in any area of your home. Choose a professional that has Checkatrade accreditation. This will ensure that they have been thoroughly vetted and checked.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to find an expert in draught-proofing. This will give you a list of local traders who are skilled in this field.
Draught proofing can be fairly cost-effective, especially if locate a professional who offers a free quotation service. The cost will vary based on the size of your house and how many draughts are repaired. The amount of money that you could save by reducing your energy costs will likely more than offset the costs.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals holding your multi-paned windows together can fail. This could cause a variety of issues, such as water damage and misting. The good news is that a lot of double glazing companies can resolve this for you, and even save the cost of a complete replacement. In some cases this will involve defogging or replacing argon glass units. This must be done by a professional as the process can take a bit of time and requires a specialist vacuum pump to remove moisture, refill the empty space with argon gas, and then seal.
Windows that are cloudy are a sure sign that the seals have failed and the insulating argon or krypton gas that was vacuum sealed between the two panes is now escaping and your window is now susceptible to condensation. This moisture can scratch the glass, resulting in 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 might remain under warranty. In this scenario the original installer or manufacturer may pay for the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to fix the broken seal, you won't get the same savings in energy as a new replacement unit.
Most of the time, the best alternative is to locate an expert local tradesman who specializes in repairs to double-glazing near me. This way, they will be able to finish the job efficiently and quickly without any major disruption 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.
Be aware that a double-glazed repair does not just refer to replacement glass units, but also any door sundries such as doors or letterboxes, regardless of whether they're Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They can become damaged or worn out over time and will need to be replaced if they are difficult to open, drop or sag.