Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can cut down on energy bills by creating an insulation. If they're damaged, or do not work correctly, heat or cold could escape or enter your home, increasing the cost to maintain an ideal temperature.
Most of these problems are easily repaired, saving you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how to identify and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent issues double-glazed doors and windows encounter is broken glass. It doesn't matter if it's a small piece from the lawnmowers that crashes against a window or an accident with a favourite vase, cracks are common to occur and can be extremely annoying. Most cracks are easily repaired. It is recommended to seek the advice of a double glazing expert for the best results. They will have the tools and know-how to ensure that your repair is safe and effective. You'll be covered by a guarantee for their work, which you will not get if you try to do the repair yourself.
Mist between your two double-glazed glass panes is another frequent issue that can easily be fixed by a double glazing repair company. To do so they'll take off the glass pane that is affected, clean up the edges and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. Once this has been done the seal will be created and the issue should not recur.
Double-glazed windows can develop cracks that extend across both panes. This is usually the result of an issue with the frame of the window and is a more serious issue that needs repair rather than 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 enter. It is possible to keep your cracked windows and doors in working order by using a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can stop superficial cracks from getting more severe particularly stress cracks that are caused by temperature fluctuations.
Most often, double glazing repairs will involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or have sagged. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it can be risky and time-consuming to attempt to fix these issues yourself. If you're able to, try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil to see if it helps. If the issue is severe you should contact the company that supplied you with the double glazing. They might be willing to visit and fix it.
Misting
Misting is a frequent issue for double glazing and it can easily be fixed by a professional who specializes in this type of work. It occurs when the space between the panes is dirty, resulting in an air droplet to enter the glass. It's a very ugly sight, so it's important to repair it as quickly as you can. repair double glazing is a security issue since it could be a danger if people walk by the windows, or if kids are playing in front.
The mist between windows can be the result of a range of causes, including condensation, air infiltration or even plant growth. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants like orchids and air plants depend on moisture to thrive. If you suspect this is the case, you should seek out a professional double glazing repair company and ask them to examine the issue. In many cases, the windows require cleaning however, in some instances it might be required to replace one or more of the panes.
Another reason for misting can be when the frame gets slightly warped. 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 usually a simple fix and can be performed in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or is sagging can be caused by temperature fluctuations. To fix this issue it is suggested to wipe the frames with cold water, lubricate the handles, mechanisms and hinges, as well as everywhere they pass through the frame. If the issue persists it is worth checking whether the company that sold you the double glazing comes with a warranty that addresses this issue and what the terms are.
Repairing double glazing is a less expensive and more efficient alternative to replacing your windows. It is crucial to find a professional who has been vetted and checked by Checkatrade before making any commitment to work.
Draughts
Double glazing owners often have to deal with a draught that occurs at their doors. These cold winds are a huge expense and also rob you of the warm, comfortable home environment that you deserve.
When new double glazed units are installed, they are equipped with seals that keep cold air out and let the heat in. However, these seals may be damaged over time, especially when they are continuously shut and opened for air ventilation. This means that the insulation properties of your double glazing may be reduced, leading to your heating bills rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
Most draughts can be fixed without replacing windows or doors. Lubricating and cleaning the hinges, mechanisms and handles can be helpful. It is also possible to inspect your sash window's locks when they're not closing correctly. If you do find that your uPVC or double glazing is difficult to close or open It's worth getting in touch with the company that you purchased it from to determine what you can do to fix it.
A draught-proofing expert may also assist you with DIY projects around the house. They will have the right tools to fix draughts in any part of your home. It is recommended to choose a contractor 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 give you an inventory of local trader who are experts in this area.
Draught proofing is fairly inexpensive, especially if you can locate a professional who provides an estimate for free. The cost will vary depending on the size of your house and the amount of draughts found and fixed. The amount you could save by reducing your energy costs will likely be more than offset the costs.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals holding your multi-paned windows together can fail. This could cause various issues like misting, or even water damage. The good news is that many 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 glasses made of argon. This is best done by a professional since it can be a lengthy process that requires a vacuum pump as well as an expert to remove moisture and refill the voids with Argon.
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 has escaped and the window is prone to condensation. The moisture will then etch the glass, resulting in an appearance of cloudy or misty that is not easily removed from either side of the window.
If you have installed your double-glazed unit recently it is possible that the warranty is valid. In this instance, either the original installer or the window manufacturer will cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you opt to repair the damaged seal instead, it's important to understand that you will not receive the same energy-saving benefits as from the brand new replacement unit.
It is often best to find a local specialist in double glazing repair near me. This way, they'll be able complete the job efficiently and quickly without the need for any major disruption to your home. Additionally, you will often receive a guarantee from the business you hire that they will repair the issue at no cost should it occur 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 doors and letterboxes, regardless of whether they are toughened safety glass or Georgian and leaded effect. These can be damaged or worn over time, and must be replaced too if they become difficult to open, or drop or slide.