Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can reduce the cost of energy by creating a thermal barrier. If they're damaged or aren't functioning properly, heat or cold can escape or get into your home, thereby increasing the cost to maintain an ideal temperature.
Many of these issues are easily fixable, saving you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how to identify and fix the most common problems.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed windows and doors confront. Whether double glazing window repairs is a pebble from the lawnmower that flies against a window or an accident with your favorite vase, cracks are easy enough to happen and can be extremely annoying. Luckily, most are easy to repair. Always seek the advice of a double glazing expert to get the best results. They will have the tools and expertise to make sure your repair is safe and efficient. They'll also provide a guarantee for their work which is something you wouldn't get by trying to repair the problem yourself.
A double glazing company can fix the mist that is formed between two panes. To fix this, they'll take off the affected glass pane clean the edges, then blow hot air into the gap to dry it. Following this an additional seal must be made to stop the issue from happening again.
Double-glazed windows can develop cracks that extend across both panes. This is usually due to a structural problem with the frame of the window. It's a more serious problem that requires repair rather than replacing one glass pane.
Cracks in double-glazed windows are ugly, and they may even be a danger to your safety if they are large enough to let rainwater or debris pass through. It is possible to keep your cracked windows and doors in working in good order by placing the strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can prevent superficial cracks from becoming worse, especially stress cracks caused by temperature fluctuations.
Often, double glazing repairs will require fixing frames that are difficult to open or have been sagging. Fixing these issues on your own can be very time-consuming and could be risky if you don't have the appropriate equipment. Try making sure that you are lubricating the hinges, mechanisms, and handles with oil if can. If the issue is more serious, you should check with the company through which you bought the double glazing. They may be willing to come out and fix the issue.
Misting
Misting is a frequent issue for double glazing and it is easily fixed by a professional who specializes in this type of work. This occurs when the space between the panes becomes dirty, resulting in 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 that could cause harm if people walk past the windows, or even when children play in the area.
The mist that appears between windows could be caused by a variety of causes like condensation, air infiltration or even the growth of plants. This is especially dangerous since epiphytic plants such as orchids and air plants rely on moisture to survive. If you suspect that this is the case, you should contact a professional repair service for double glazing and have them inspect the issue. In some cases windows, they may just need to be cleaned. However, in other instances, it could be required for one or more panes to be replaced.
Another cause of misting is when the frame is slightly warped. This happens most often in areas where there is extreme weather conditions. It could cause the frame to expand or shrink, which could cause the seal to break. This is a relatively simple fix that is done together with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or sagging is often the result of temperatures that fluctuate and can be fixed by wiping the frames down with cold water and then lubricating handles hinges, mechanisms, and anywhere where they pass through the frame. This is often enough to resolve the issue, however if it persists and continues to linger, it's worth making sure that the company you purchased the double glazing from has a warranty that covers this, and what the conditions of it.
Repairing double glazing is a cheaper and more efficient alternative to replacing your windows. It is crucial to find a tradesperson that has been verified and checked by Checkatrade before committing to any work.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to deal with a draft that can be felt at their doors. These cold winds are a major waste of energy and they also rob you of the warm, comfortable home you deserve.
When new double-glazed units are installed, they are equipped with seals to keep the cold air out and the warmth in. These seals may break down in time if they're continuously closed and opened to allow air circulation. This means that the insulating properties of your double glazing could be reduced, which could result in your heating bills rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The positive side is that the majority of draughts can be corrected without the requirement for replacement doors or windows. Lubricating and cleaning the hinges, mechanisms and handles can help. You might also need to check the locks on your sash window when they're not closing correctly. If you notice that your uPVC double-glazed or uPVC windows are difficult to open or shut, you should contact the company from which you bought it to find out what they can do.
A draught-proofing expert may also help you with some DIY projects around your home. They will have the right tools to fix draughts in any area of your home. It is a good idea to choose a contractor with Checkatrade certification as this will ensure that they've been thoroughly vetted and checked.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade website to find a specialist in draught-proofing. This will give you an inventory of local trader who are proficient in this field.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap and affordable, particularly if you find a specialist who offers a free quote service. The cost will vary based on the size of your house and how many draughts are repaired. However the amount you'll save on your energy bill is likely to more than offset any cost associated with having your draughts dealt with.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that hold your windows together could fail. This could cause numerous issues, including misting, and even water damage. The good news is that many double glazing companies can fix this for you and avoid the cost of a complete replacement. In some instances, this may require defogging or re-instating the glasses made of argon. This is best done by a professional since it is a lengthy process that requires a vacuum pump and a specialist to remove the moisture and fill the voids with argon.
Foggy windows are an indication that the seals failed and that the insulating gas Krypton or argon which was vacuum-sealed between two glass panes has disappeared. This makes your window susceptible to condensation. The moisture will then etch the glass, resulting in an appearance of cloudy or misty that cannot be removed from either side of the window.
If you've recently put in your double glazing it is possible that it may still be under warranty, and in this case the original installer or window manufacturer may pay for the repair or replacement cost. If you decide to fix the broken seal, you will not get the same savings in energy that you would with a new replacement unit.
The most effective option is to find a local tradesman who specialises in repairs to double glazing near me. They can complete the job in a short time, efficiently and without causing any major disruptions to your home. In addition, you'll often be able to get a guarantee from the business you hire to fix the problem for free should it happen again in the future.
Be aware that double-glazed repairs do not just refer to replacement glass units, but also door sundries, such as doors or letterboxes, regardless of whether they're Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They may be damaged or worn out over time, and should be replaced too if they become difficult to open or drop or sag.