Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing provides an insulation layer to help reduce the cost of energy. If they're damaged or aren't functioning correctly, cold or heat can escape or get into your home, thereby increasing the cost of maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Many of these issues are easily fixable, saving you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how you can identify and fix common problems.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems double glazed doors and windows encounter is broken glass. If it's a pebble from the lawnmower that flies against the window or an accident with a favourite vase, cracks are common to occur and can be extremely annoying. Fortunately, the majority are simple to fix. To get the best results, it is recommended to contact an expert in double glazing. They'll have the right tools and know-how to ensure the repair is as safe and efficient as it can be. They'll also provide a guarantee for their work, something you won't get attempting the repair yourself.
Mist between your two double-glazed glass panes is another issue that can be easily fixed by a double glazing repair firm. To fix it they'll remove the glass that has been affected, clean up the edges and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After this the seal needs to be put in place to prevent the issue from occurring again.
Double-glazed windows can develop cracks that extend across both panes. This is usually due to some sort of structural problem with the frame of the window and is a much more serious issue that needs repair rather than replacing the glass in a single piece.
Cracks in double-glazed windows can be unsightly, and they could even pose a risk to safety if they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris enter. You can sometimes keep your cracked doors and windows in good in good order by placing a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can prevent superficial cracks from worsening - particularly stress cracks caused by the fluctuation in temperature.
Double glazing repairs usually involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or have gaps that have sagged. Attempting to fix these issues yourself can be very time-consuming and potentially dangerous if you don't have the right equipment. If you're able to, try lubricating the mechanisms, hinges and handles with oil to see if it will help. If the issue is serious then contact the company who sold you the double glazing. They might be able to come out and repair it.
Misting
Misting is a frequent issue for double glazing, and it can easily be fixed by a specialist tradesperson in this kind of work. It occurs when the gap between the panes gets dirty and it causes the droplet of water to get trapped inside the glass. It can be very unsightly and it is essential to have it fixed in the earliest time possible. It's also a security issue and could cause injury if people walk past the windows or children playing in the area.
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 for their survival. If double glazing window repair suspect this is the case, then you should contact a professional double glazing repair company and have them inspect the problem. In certain cases, the windows may only require cleaning. However, in other cases it may be necessary for one or more panes to be replaced.
A little warping of the frame can also cause misting. This is typical in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame can expand or contract, causing the seal to fail. This is a relatively easy fix that can be performed together with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or is sagging can be caused by temperature fluctuations. To solve this problem, you should wipe the frames with cold water, lubricate the handles, mechanisms and hinges, and then everywhere they pass through the frame. This can often help resolve the issue, but if it continues, then it is worth checking whether the company that you bought the double-glazed from has an insurance policy that covers this and what the terms of it.
Double glazing repairs are a much affordable and less time-consuming alternative to replacing your windows. Before you commit to any work, it's essential to choose an expert that has been verified and verified by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners often have to deal with a draft that can be felt around their doors. These cold breezes are a waste of energy and could prevent you from enjoying a warm, comfortable home.
When new double-glazed units are installed, they are equipped with seals that keep the cold air out and the heat in. The seals could break over time if they're constantly closed and opened to allow air ventilation. The insulation properties can be diminished. This could result in higher heating bills and a more uncomfortable home.
Most draughts are easily repaired without having to replace windows or doors. Cleaning and lubricating handles, hinges and mechanisms will help. If your sash windows are not closing properly, you may also need to check the locks. If you find that your uPVC double glazing or uPVC windows are difficult to open or close You should contact the company from which you purchased it to inquire about what they can do.
A professional in draught-proofing can help you with some DIY projects around your home. They will have the right equipment to correct draughts within any part of your home. It is a good idea to choose a contractor with Checkatrade certification as this will assure you that they have been thoroughly checked and vetted.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade website to find an expert in draught-proofing. This will give you a list of local traders who are proficient in this area.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap and affordable, particularly if you find a specialist who will provide an initial quote. The cost will vary based on the size of the home and the number of draughts that are fixed. The amount of money that you could save by reducing your energy bills will likely be more than offset the costs.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that hold your multi-pane windows together can fail. This can cause numerous issues, including misting, and even water damage. Many double glazing companies will solve this issue for you, saving you the cost of a complete replacement. In certain cases, this will require defogging or re-instating the glass units made of argon. This is best done by a professional since it can be a lengthy procedure that requires a vacuum pump and a specialist to remove water and fill the empty spaces with argon.
The appearance of a window that is cloudy indicates that the seals failed and that the gas that insulates, Krypton or argon which was sealed by vacuum between the two panes of glass has escaped. This leaves your window susceptible to condensation. This moisture can etch the glass, giving it an appearance of mist and cloudy on both sides of the windows.
If you've recently put in your double glazing it is possible that it may still be under warranty. In this situation the original installer or window manufacturer may pay for the repair or replacement cost. If you opt to repair the damaged seal instead, it's important to understand that you won't get the same energy savings from a brand new replacement unit.
Most of the time, the best option is to find a local tradesman that specializes in double glazing repairs near me. This way, they will be able to finish the job efficiently and quickly without the need for any major disruption to your home. You will also receive a guarantee that the company will fix the problem for free if the issue occurs again in the future.
It is also important to note that a double-glazed repair doesn't only mean the replacement of the glass units, but also any door sundries like doors and letterboxes - regardless of whether they're toughened security glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They can be damaged or worn out over time, and will need to be replaced if they are difficult to open, drop or slide.