Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates a thermal barrier that helps lower energy costs. If they're damaged, or aren't functioning properly, heat or cold could escape or enter your home, causing an increase in cost of maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved which will save you the cost of replacing your double glazing completely. Here's how to identify and resolve common issues.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most common problems that double-glazed doors and windows encounter. It doesn't matter if it's a small piece from a lawnmower that falls against the window or an accident with a favourite vase, cracks are common to occur and can be extremely annoying. Luckily, most are easy to fix. For the best results you should always consult an expert in double glazing. They will have the tools and know-how to make sure your repair is safe and effective. They'll also offer a guarantee for their work, something you wouldn't get by doing the repair yourself.
Mist between your two double-glazed glass panes is another issue that can be easily fixed by a double glazing repair company. To fix this, they'll remove the glass pane that is affected, clean up the edges, and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After this is done the seal will be put in place and the issue should not occur again.
Occasionally, double glazed windows may develop cracks that extend all across both panes of glass. This is usually the result of an issue with the window frame and is a more serious problem that requires repair rather than replacing a single pane.
Cracks in double-glazed windows can be unsightly, and they could even pose a safety risk when they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris enter. It is possible to keep damaged windows and doors in working in good order by placing a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help keep superficial cracks from getting worse - especially stress cracks that are caused by the fluctuation in temperature.
Often double glazing repairs include fixing frames that are difficult to open or have been sagging. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it can be risky and time-consuming to try and fix these problems yourself. Try applying lubrication to the hinges, mechanisms, and handles with oil if you are able to. If the problem is more serious it is best to contact the company from which you purchased the double glazing. They might be willing to come out and fix it.
Misting
Misting is a typical issue for double glazing, and it is easily fixed by a tradesperson who specialises in this kind of work. It occurs when the space between the panes is dirty, causing drops of water to form inside the glass. This can be very unappealing and it is essential to get it fixed in the earliest time possible. It's also a safety issue and could cause injury in the event that people walk by the windows or when children play in front of them.
Mist between the windows can be caused by a number of factors, including condensation, air infiltration, and even growth of plants. This is particularly dangerous because epiphytic plants such as orchids and airplants require moisture to survive. If you suspect that this is the case is the case, you should call an expert repair company for double glazing to look into the issue. In certain cases windows, they may just require cleaning. However, in other cases it may be necessary for one or more panes to be replaced.
A little warping of the frame could also result in misting. This is a common occurrence in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract which causes the seal to fail. This is a relatively easy fix that can be performed in conjunction with other repairs.
Difficult-to-open or sagging double glazing is often the result of temperature fluctuations and can be fixed by wiping the frames down with cold water and then lubricating handles hinges, mechanisms, and any other places they pass through the frame. This can often help solve the issue but if it doesn't and continues to linger, it's worth making sure that the company you purchased the double glazing from has an insurance policy that covers this and what the conditions of it.
Repairing double glazing is a less expensive and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. It is important to choose a tradesperson who has been vetted and checked by Checkatrade before signing any contract.
Draughts
A drafty door is among the most common problems that double glazing owners have to confront. These cold breezes are a major waste of energy and they also deprive you of the cozy, warm home you deserve.
Seals are part of the new double-glazed units that keep out cold air and let in heat. The seals could break over time if they're constantly open and closed to allow air circulation. This means that the insulation properties of your double glazing could be reduced, which could result in the cost of heating rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The good news is that most draughts can be corrected without the requirement for replacement windows or doors. Lubricating and cleaning handles, hinges and mechanisms will help. If your sash windows have trouble closing correctly, you might also need to check the locks. If you notice 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 to help.
Another good option is to use an expert in draught proofing to complete some DIY work at your home. They'll have access special tools that can be used to identify and fix draughts from any location in your home. Choose a tradesperson who is certified by Checkatrade accreditation. This will ensure they have been thoroughly vetted, and screened.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to find an expert in draught-proofing. This will bring up the list of traders in your area who are proficient in this kind of work.
Draught proofing is relatively cost-effective, especially if locate a professional who offers a free quotation service. The cost will differ based on the size of your house and the number of draughts that are discovered and fixed. However double glazing window repair 'll save on your energy bills is likely to exceed the costs of having your draughts dealt with.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that keep your multi-pane windows together could fail. This can lead to various issues like misting, or even water damage. Many double glazing companies will fix this problem for you, thereby avoiding the expense of a full replacement. In some instances, this may involve defogging or replacing glass units made of argon. 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 void with argon gas and then reseal.
Foggy windows are a clear indication that the seals failed and the insulating argon or krypton gas that was sealed between the two panes has escaped, leaving your window prone 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 glazing recently it is possible that the warranty is valid. In this instance the original installer or the window manufacturer will cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the broken seal, you will not get the same savings in energy that you would with a new replacement unit.
It is usually best to locate a local specialist in double glazing repair near me. This way, they'll be able to finish the job efficiently and quickly without requiring any major disruption to your home. In addition, you'll typically be able to obtain a guarantee from the business you choose to hire that they will solve the issue for free if it happens again in the future.
Make sure that double-glazed repairs do not only refer to the replacement glass units, but also door sundries like doors or letterboxes, regardless of whether they're Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. These can be damaged or worn out over time, and should be replaced in the event that they become difficult to open or drop or slide.