Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can reduce energy bills by creating a thermal barrier. When they are damaged or fail to work properly, they can let heat or cold escape or get in and cost you more to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved which will save you the expense of replacing your double-glazing completely. Here's how to spot and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems double-glazed doors and windows encounter is broken glass. Whether it is a pebble from the lawnmower that flies against a window, or an accident with a favourite vase, cracks are easy to occur and can be extremely frustrating. Luckily, most are easy to fix. To get the best results, it is recommended to contact an expert in double glazing. They'll have the tools and expertise to ensure that your repair is secure and effective. They'll also provide a guarantee 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 common problem that can be easily fixed by a double glazing repair company. To fix this, they'll remove the affected glass pane clean the edges and then blow hot air into the gap in order to dry it. After that the seal needs to be put in place to prevent the issue from happening again.
Occasionally, double glazed windows can form cracks that go all the way through both panes of glass. This is usually caused by a structural problem with the frame of the window. It 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 may even pose a risk when the crack is large enough to allow rainwater or debris through. You can sometimes keep your broken windows and doors in working in good order by placing the strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help prevent superficial cracks from getting worse particularly stress cracks that are caused by temperature fluctuations.
Double glazing repairs usually require fixing frames that are difficult to open, or have been sagging. Fixing these issues on your own can be a long and tedious process and even risky if you do not have the proper equipment. Try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil if are able to. If the problem is more severe it is best to contact the company from whom you purchased the double glazing. They may be willing to come out and repair it.
Misting
Misting is a frequent issue for double glazing and it is easily fixed by a professional who specializes in this kind of work. This occurs when the space between the panes gets dirty, causing an air droplet to enter the glass. It's a very ugly sight, so it's important to fix it as soon as you can. It's also a security issue and can cause harm in the event that people walk by the windows, or even when children play in front of them.
The mist that forms between windows can be caused by a variety of things like condensation, air infiltration or even plant growth. This is particularly dangerous due to epiphytic plants, such as orchids and airplants require moisture to survive. If you suspect this is the case, then you should seek out a professional double glazing repair company and ask them to examine the issue. In some instances windows, they may just require cleaning. However, in other cases, it could 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 that experience extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract which causes the seal to fail. The good news is that this is typically a simple fix and can be completed at the same time as other repairs.
Sagging or difficult-to-open double glazing is often caused by temperatures that fluctuate and can be resolved by cleaning the frames with cold water and then lubricating handles, mechanisms, hinges and other points where they go through the frame. This can often help resolve the issue, but if it continues 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 issue and what the conditions of it.
Double repairs to your glazing are a affordable and less time-consuming alternative to replacing your windows. Before you decide to do any work, it's important to find an expert who has been vetted and checked by Checkatrade.
Draughts
A drafty door is one of the most common problems that double glazing owners must confront. These gusts of cold air are a huge waste of energy and they also rob you of the comfortable, warm home you deserve.
Seals are a part of new double-glazed units that keep out cold air while letting in heat. These seals can break down over time if they're constantly open and closed to allow air flow. This means that the insulating properties of your double-glazed windows could be diminished, resulting in your heating bills rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The majority of draughts can be fixed without replacing doors or windows. Cleaning and lubricating handles, hinges and mechanisms can be helpful. If your sash windows are not closing properly, you may also want to examine the locks. If you do find 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 see what you can do to fix it.
A draught-proofing expert can also help you with some DIY projects around the home. They will have the right equipment to correct draughts within any part of your home. Select a contractor who has Checkatrade accreditation. This means that they have been thoroughly vetted, and screened.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade site to locate an expert in draught-proofing. repairing double glazing will give you a list of local traders who are experts in this field.
Draught proofing is fairly inexpensive particularly if you find a specialist who offers an initial quote. The cost will vary based on the size of your house and the amount of draughts that are discovered and repaired. However the amount you can save on your energy bills is likely to be more than offset any costs associated with the treatment of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that hold your windows together could fail. This can cause a number of problems, including misting, and even water damage. Many double glazing companies will solve this issue for you, and save you the cost of a total replacement. In some instances, this may require defogging or re-instating the glass units made of argon. This should be done by a professional as the process can take a bit of time and requires a specialist vacuum pump to eliminate moisture, then fill the void with argon gas and then seal it.
Foggy windows are an indication that the seals have failed and that the gas that insulates, Krypton or argon which was vacuum-sealed between the two glass panes has disappeared. This makes your window susceptible to condensation. This moisture can then etch the glass and cause a cloudy or misty appearance that is not easily removed from either side of the window.
If you installed your double glazing in the past there is a chance that the warranty is valid. In this instance either the original installer or the window manufacturer will cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the damaged seal, you won't get the same savings in energy that you would with a new replacement unit.
Most of the time, the best option is to find an expert local tradesman who specializes in repairs to double-glazing near me. They will be able complete the job quickly, effectively and without causing any major disruptions to your home. You will also receive a guarantee that the company will repair the issue free of charge if it occurs again in the future.
It is also worth remembering that a double-glazed repair doesn't only mean the replacement of glass units but also includes any door sundries, like letterboxes and doors - whether they're toughened security glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They may be damaged or worn out over time, and should be replaced too if they become difficult to open or drop or drop or sag.