Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates an insulation layer to help lower energy costs. If they're damaged, or do not work correctly, cold or heat could escape or enter your home, causing an increase in cost of maintaining the temperature you want to maintain.
Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be resolved and save you the cost of replacing your double glazing altogether. Here's how you can identify and fix the most common problems.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most common problems that double-glazed doors and windows encounter. Cracks can happen for a variety of reasons. If a pebble from mowers lands in windows or an accident happens in a vase. Cracks are usually easily repaired. You should always consult a double glazing specialist for the best results. They'll have the tools and know-how to make sure your repair is safe and effective. They'll also offer an assurance for their work, which is something you wouldn't get by attempting the repair yourself.
Mist between your two panes of double-glazed glass is another issue that can be easily fixed by a double glazing repair company. To fix this, they will remove the glass pane that is 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 occurring again.
Double-glazed windows may develop cracks that extend through both panes. This is usually the result of an issue with the frame of the window and is a more serious issue that needs repairing than simply replacing a single pane.
In addition to reducing light and heat transfer cracks in double-glazed glass will make your home look ugly and could even be dangerous when the crack is large enough to allow debris or rainwater through. It is possible to keep your damaged windows and doors in working condition by placing a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can prevent superficial cracks from getting worse, especially stress cracks that are caused by temperature changes.
Most often double glazing repairs involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or that have been sagging. Making the effort to fix these issues by yourself can be a long and tedious process and could be dangerous if you don't have the right equipment. Try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms, and handles using oil if you are able to. If the problem is more serious it is best to contact the company through which you purchased your double glazing. They might be willing to come out and repair it.
Misting
Misting is a common problem 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 becomes dirty, which causes a water droplet inside the glass. It's very unattractive, so it's important to repair it as quickly as you can. This is a security issue as it can be dangerous when people walk past the windows, or even if kids are playing in front of it.
The mist that appears between windows could be the result of a range of things such as condensation, air infiltration or even the growth of plants. This is especially dangerous due to epiphytic plants, such as orchids and airplants require moisture to survive. If you suspect this is the case, then you should consult a professional repair service for double glazing and have them inspect the issue. In many cases, the windows will require cleaning however, in some instances it might be necessary to replace one or more panes.
A small amount of warping in the frame may also cause misting. This is a common occurrence in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame can expand or contract, causing the seal to fail. The good thing is that it is typically a simple fix and can be completed in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or that is sagging is often caused by fluctuations in temperature. To fix this issue, you should wipe the frames with cold water, grease the handles, mechanisms and hinges, and everywhere they go through the frame. If the problem persists it is worth checking whether the company that supplied you with the double-glazed unit has a warranty that addresses this issue and what its conditions are.
Repairing double glazing is a more affordable and more efficient 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
Double glazing owners typically have to contend with the breeze that is a nuisance around their doors. These cold air gusts are unproductive and can make it difficult to enjoy an inviting, warm home.
Seals are part of the new double-glazed units that keep out cold air and let in heat. However, these seals may break down over time, especially when they are continuously closed and opened to allow for air ventilation. The insulation properties can be reduced. This can lead to higher heating bills and a less comfortable home.
Most draughts are easily repaired without the need to replace doors or windows. Cleaning and lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles can help. You may also want to examine the locks on your sash window, especially in case they're not closing properly. If you notice that your uPVC double-glazed or uPVC windows are difficult to open or close, you should contact the company where you purchased it to see what they can do.
Another alternative is to employ a draught proofing expert to do some DIY work around your home. They'll have access specific tools that are able to find and fix the draughts in any area of your home. Select a contractor who is certified by Checkatrade accreditation. This means that they have been thoroughly vetted and screened.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to locate an expert in draught-proofing. This will show a list of traders in your area who are proficient in this kind of work.
Draught proofing is comparatively inexpensive particularly if you 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 repaired. However, the amount of money you'll save on your energy bill is likely to more than offset the costs of getting rid of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that hold your multi-pane windows together could fail. This can cause various issues like misting, or even water damage. Many double glazing companies can solve this issue for you, and save you the cost of a complete replacement. In certain cases, this will involve defogging or replacing argon glass units. This should be done by a professional as the process can take some time and requires a specialist vacuum pump to eliminate water, fill the void with argon gas and then seal.
The windows that appear cloudy are a clear sign that the seals have failed and the insulating argon, or krypton gas that was vacuum-sealed between the two panes has escaped, leaving your window prone to condensation. The moisture may etch the glass, creating an appearance of mist and cloudy on either side of the windows.
If you installed your double-glazed unit recently there is a chance that the warranty remains valid. In this instance either the original installer or the manufacturer of the window will cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to fix the broken seal, you won't get the same savings in energy as a replacement unit.
Most of the time, the best solution is to find a local tradesman who specialises in double glazing repairs near me. This way, they will be able complete the task quickly and efficiently without requiring any major disruption to your home. You will also receive an assurance that the business will fix the problem without cost if it occurs again in the future.
Remember that the term "double-glazed repair" does not only mean replacement glass units, but also to any door sundries such as doors or letterboxes - regardless of whether they are Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. double glazing repairers can become damaged or worn out over time, and should be replaced too if they become difficult to open or drop or slide.