Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can help reduce costs for energy by creating a thermal barrier. If they're damaged or fail to work correctly, they may let heat or cold escape or enter into your home, causing more expense to keep your home at a pleasant temperature.
Thankfully, most of these problems can be fixed which will save you the cost of replacing your double glazing altogether. Here's how to identify and fix the most common problems.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems double glazed doors and windows face is broken glass. Cracks can occur due to a variety of reasons. Whether a pebble from the lawnmowers falls into windows or an accident happens in a vase. The majority of cracks can be repaired. It is recommended to seek out a double glazing expert to get the best results. They'll have the proper tools and expertise to make sure your repair is as safe and as effective as possible. You'll get a guarantee on their work, which you will not get if you attempt to fix the problem yourself.
The mist that forms between the two double-glazed glass panes is another frequent issue that can be easily fixed by a double glazing repair company. To fix this, they'll take off the glass pane affected, clean the edges and then blow hot air into the gap to dry it. After this an additional seal must be put in place to prevent the issue from happening again.
Double-glazed windows may develop cracks that extend through both panes. This is usually due to an issue with the structure in the window frame. It is a 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 when they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris pass through. You can keep your cracked doors and windows in working order using a stripe of strong-hold adhesive tape on both sides. This can prevent superficial cracks from getting worse particularly stress cracks caused by temperature fluctuations.
A lot of times, double glazing repairs will require fixing frames that are difficult to open or have been sagging. If you don't own the appropriate tools, it could be risky and time-consuming attempt to fix these issues yourself. Try applying lubrication to the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil if you can. If the problem is more serious it is best to contact the company through which you bought your double glazing. They may be willing to come out and fix the issue.
Misting
Misting is a frequent issue for double-glazed windows and can easily be fixed by a professional who specializes in this type of work. It happens when the space between the panes is dirty, which causes an air droplet to enter the glass. It can be very unsightly and is crucial to have it fixed as soon as you can. This is a safety concern because it could be a risk for people who walk by the windows, or even if kids are playing in front of the windows.
The mist that forms between windows can be caused by a number of things including condensation, air infiltration and even plant growth. This is especially hazardous, as epiphytic plants like orchids and airplants rely on moisture to survive. If you suspect that this is the case, then you should consult a professional double glazing repair company and ask them to look into the issue. In many cases the windows will simply need to be wiped down but in other cases it could be required to replace one or more of the panes.
A slight warping of the frame may also cause misting. This is a common occurrence in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract which causes the seal to fail. The good news is that this is typically a simple fix and can be completed simultaneously with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or sagging is often caused by temperatures that fluctuate and can be solved by cleaning the frames with cold water and lubricating handles hinges, mechanisms, and other points where they go through the frame. This will often help to solve the issue but if it doesn't you should consider investigating whether the business that you bought the double-glazed from has an insurance policy 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 work, it is crucial to choose an expert that has been verified and vetted by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to deal with a breeze that is a nuisance around their doors. These cold breezes are a big expense and also take away the warm, comfortable home you deserve.
When new double-glazed units are installed, they are equipped with seals to keep the cold air out while allowing the heat in. However, these seals could break down over time, especially when they are constantly shut and opened for air circulation. This means that the insulation properties of your double glazing could be reduced, leading to your heating bills going up and your home becoming less comfortable.
The good news is that the majority of draughts can be corrected without the necessity of replacing windows or doors. Cleaning and lubricating handles, hinges and mechanisms can be helpful. It is also possible to examine the locks on your sash window, especially if they aren't closing properly. If you discover that your uPVC or double glazing isn't easy to close or open, it's worth getting in touch with the company you bought it from to see what you can do to fix it.
Another good alternative is to hire a draught proofing expert to complete some DIY work on your home. They'll have access specialist tools that can be used to locate and repair the draughts in any area of your home. Choose a tradesperson who is certified by Checkatrade accreditation. This means they have been thoroughly vetted, and screened.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade site to find an expert in draughtproofing. This will give you an inventory of local trader who are skilled in this area.
Draught proofing can be relatively inexpensive, especially if you find a service that provides the service of a free quote. The cost will vary depending on the size of your home and the amount of draughts that are discovered and repaired. However, the amount of money you can save on your energy bills is likely to more than offset any cost associated with having your draughts dealt with.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that hold your windows together may fail. This can lead to a host of problems including misting, or even water damage. Many double glazing companies will fix this problem for you, and save you the cost of a total replacement. In certain cases, this may involve defogging the glass, or reinstating the argon units. This must be done by a professional, as the process may take some time and requires a specialised vacuum pump to eliminate moisture, refill the empty space with argon gas, and then seal.
repairing double glazing of a window that is cloudy indicates that the seals have failed and that the insulating gas Krypton or argon which was vacuum-sealed between the two glass panes has escaped. This makes your window susceptible to condensation. The moisture may etch the glass, creating clouds and misty reflections on both sides of the windows.
If you've recently put in your double-glazed unit, it is possible that it might remain under warranty. In this scenario, the original installer or window manufacturer may provide the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the broken seal instead, it's important to understand that you will not get the same savings in energy from an entirely new replacement unit.
Most of the time, the best option is to find a local tradesman who specialises in repairs to double-glazing near me. They will be able to complete the job quickly, effectively and without causing major disruptions to your home. You can also get assurance that the company will correct the issue free of charge if it occurs again in the future.
It is important to remember that a double-glazed repair doesn't only mean the replacement of glass units, but also any door sundries like letterboxes and doors - whether they're toughened security glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They can become damaged or worn out over time, and need to be replaced too when they become difficult to open or drop or sag.