Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates an insulation layer to help reduce the cost of energy. If they're damaged, or do not work correctly, heat or cold could escape or enter your home, causing an increase in cost of maintaining an ideal temperature.
Most of these problems are easily fixable, saving you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how to spot and fix the most common problems.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems double-glazed doors and windows face is broken glass. Cracks can occur for many reasons. Whether a pebble from a lawnmower flies into the window or an accident happens with a vase. Fortunately, the majority are simple to repair. To get the best results, you should always contact a double glazing professional. They will have the tools and know-how to ensure that your repair is safe and efficient. You'll receive a warranty on their work, which you will not receive if you try to repair the work yourself.
Double glazing companies can repair the mist that is formed between two panes. To fix it, they'll remove the glass pane that is affected and clean the edges and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After this the seal needs to be created to prevent the issue from happening again.
Double-glazed windows can develop cracks that span both panes. This is usually caused by a structural issue with the window frame. This is an even more serious issue that requires repair rather than replacing a single glass pane.
In addition to reducing heat and light transfer, cracks in your double-glazed glass will leave your home looking unsightly and can even be dangerous when the crack is large enough to allow debris or rainwater through. You can sometimes keep your broken windows and doors in working order by using a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help prevent superficial cracks from becoming worse particularly stress cracks that are caused by temperature fluctuations.
Often double glazing repairs include fixing frames that are difficult to open or have stretched. If you don't own the appropriate tools, it can be dangerous and time-consuming to try and fix these problems yourself. If you're able try, you can lubricate the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil to see if it will help. If repairs to double glazing is serious you should contact the company who sold you the double glazing. They might be willing to come out and repair it.
Misting
Misting is a common problem for double glazing, and it can be easily solved by a specialist tradesperson in this type of work. This occurs when the space between the panes becomes dirty, causing drops of water to form inside the glass. It's very unattractive, so it's important to fix it as soon as you can. It is also a safety issue and could cause injury if people walk past the windows, or even if children are playing in front of them.
The mist between windows can be the result of a range of causes like condensation, air infiltration, or even growth of plants. This is especially hazardous, as epiphytic plants like orchids and airplants depend on moisture for survival. If you suspect that this is the case is the case, it is best to contact an expert double glazing repair company to look into the issue. In most cases, the windows will require cleaning however, in some instances it could be required to replace one or more panes.
Another reason for misting can be when the frame is slightly distorted. This is a common occurrence in areas that experience extreme weather conditions. The frame can expand or contract and cause the seal to fail. This is a fairly simple fix that can be performed in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or sagging can be caused by fluctuations in temperature. To resolve this issue it is recommended to clean the frames with cold water and grease the handles, mechanisms, and hinges, and then everywhere they go through the frame. If the problem continues, it's worth checking if the company who sold you the double glazing comes with a warranty covering this issue and what the terms are.
Repairing double glazing is a more affordable and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. It is crucial to choose a tradesperson who has been verified and checked by Checkatrade before signing any contract.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to contend with the draught that occurs at their doors. These cold breezes are a waste of energy and could prevent you from enjoying the warmth of your home.
When new double-glazed units are installed, they are equipped with seals that keep cold air out and let the warmth in. However, these seals could be damaged in time, particularly when they are continuously shut and opened for air ventilation. The insulation properties can be reduced. This can lead to higher heating bills and a less comfortable home.
Most draughts can be repaired without the need to replace windows or doors. A simple cleaning and lubrication routine on the handles, hinges and mechanisms can aid. It is also possible to inspect your sash window's locks when they're not closing correctly. 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 you can do to fix it.
Another good option is to use an expert in draught proofing to do some DIY work around your home. They will have the right tools to fix draughts in any area of your home. It is a good idea to select a professional who has Checkatrade certification as this will ensure that they have been thoroughly vetted and checked.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade site to find an expert in draughtproofing. This will provide you with a list of local traders who are proficient in this area.
Draught proofing can be fairly affordable, particularly if you locate a professional who offers the service of a free quote. The cost will vary depending on the size of your house and the number of draughts that are discovered and repaired. The amount you could save by reducing your energy bills is likely to more than offset the costs.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that hold your windows together can fail. This can lead to a range of issues, including misting, and even water damage. The good news is that a lot of double glazing companies can solve this for you and save the cost of a full replacement. In certain cases, this will involve defogging or replacing glass units made of argon. This must be done by a professional, since the process can take some time and requires a special vacuum pump to remove moisture, refill the empty space with argon gas, and then seal it.
The windows that appear cloudy are a sign that the seals failed, and that the insulating gas argon or Krypton that was vacuum-sealed between the two panes of glass has escaped. The window is susceptible to condensation. This moisture can scratch the glass, creating clouds and misty reflections on both sides of the windows.
If you've installed your double-glazed unit recently it is possible that the warranty is valid. In this scenario, either the original installer or the manufacturer of the window would cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to fix the broken seal, you will not receive the same energy savings as a new replacement unit.
It is recommended to find a local expert in double glazing repair near me. They will be able complete the task quickly, efficiently and without causing any major disruptions to your home. In addition, you'll typically be able to obtain a guarantee from the company you choose to hire that they will repair the issue at no cost should it happen again in the future.
It is also worth remembering that a double-glazed repair doesn't just refer to the replacement of glass units but also includes any door sundries, like letterboxes and doors - whether they're toughened safety glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They can become damaged or worn out over time and require replacement when they are difficult to open, fall or slide.