Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates a thermal barrier to help lower energy costs. When they are damaged or fail to work properly, they could let heat or cold escape or enter and cost you more to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Many of these issues are easily fixed, preventing 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 encounter is broken glass. Cracks can occur due to a variety of reasons. It is possible that a small piece of the lawnmowers falls into windows or a collision occurs in a vase. Cracks are usually easily repaired. For the best results, you should always consult a double glazing professional. They'll have the proper tools and expertise to make sure the repair is as safe and efficient as it can be. They'll also provide an assurance for their work, which is something you won't get attempting the repair yourself.
Double glazing companies can fix the mist that is formed between two panes. To fix it 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 the seal needs to be put in place to prevent the problem from recurring.
Sometimes, double-glazed windows may form cracks that go all across both glass panes. This is usually the result of an issue in the window frame. It is a more serious problem that requires repair, rather than replacing a single pane.
In addition to reducing light and heat transfer cracks in double-glazed glass can make your home look ugly and may even pose a risk if the crack is wide enough to allow rainwater or debris through. You can sometimes keep your cracked windows and doors in working condition by placing the strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help prevent superficial cracks from getting more severe and especially stress cracks that are caused by temperature fluctuations.
Most often double glazing repairs involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or have been sagging. Making the effort to fix these issues by yourself 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 using oil if you can. If the issue is more serious, you should check with the company from which you bought your double glazing. They might be willing to help out and fix the issue.
Misting
Misting is a common problem for double-glazed windows and is easily fixed by a specialist tradesperson in this kind of work. It occurs when the space between the panes gets dirty, causing drops of water to form inside the glass. It's very unattractive and therefore it is important to repair it as quickly as you can. It's also a safety issue and could cause injury when people walk by the windows, or even if children are playing in front of them.
The mist between windows can be caused by a variety of things, including condensation, air infiltration, or even plant growth. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants such as orchids and air plants rely on moisture to thrive. If you suspect that this is the case, then you should consult a professional double glazing repair company and ask them to look into the problem. In some cases, the windows may only require cleaning. In other cases, it could be necessary for one or more panes to be replaced.
Another cause of misting is when the frame gets a little warped. This often happens in areas with extreme weather conditions. It can cause the frame to expand or shrink, which could cause the seal to crack. The good thing is that it is generally a simple fix that can be completed in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or sagging is often caused by fluctuations in temperature. To resolve this issue, you should wipe the frames with cold water, grease the handles, mechanisms, and hinges, and then everywhere they go through the frame. This is often enough to resolve 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 a warranty that covers this and what the conditions of it.
Repairing double glazing is a cheaper and more practical alternative to replacing your windows. Before committing to any work, it's crucial to choose a contractor who has been thoroughly vetted and checked by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to deal with a draft that can be felt in their doors. These cold winds are a big waste of energy, and they also deprive you of the warm, comfortable home environment that you deserve.
Seals are a part of new double-glazed units, which keep out cold air and let in warmth. These seals can break down over time if they're constantly open and closed to allow air flow. This means that the insulation properties of your double glazing could be reduced, leading to the cost of heating rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The positive side is that the majority of drafts can be repaired without the requirement for replacement windows or doors. Cleaning and lubricating handles, hinges and mechanisms can be helpful. You might also need to examine the locks on your sash window, especially when they're not closing correctly. If you find that your uPVC or double glazing is difficult to open or close It's worth getting in touch with the business you purchased it from to determine what you can do to fix it.
A draught-proofing expert may also help you with some DIY projects around the home. They will have access to specialist tools that can be used to locate and repair draughts from any location in your home. Select a contractor that has Checkatrade accreditation. This will ensure 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. This will give you a list of local traders who are experts in this field.
Draught proofing can be fairly affordable, particularly if you find a specialist that offers a free quotation service. The cost will vary based on the size of your home and the amount of draughts found and fixed. The amount of money that you could save by reducing your energy costs will likely more than offset the costs.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals holding your windows with multiple panes can fail. This could cause numerous issues, including misting, or even water damage. The good news is that many double glazing companies can resolve this for you and avoid the expense of a full replacement. In certain cases, this will involve defogging or re-instating glass units made of argon. This is best done by a professional since it can be a lengthy process that requires a vacuum pump and a specialist to remove water and fill the voids with argon.
The windows that appear cloudy are a clear indication that the seals failed and the insulating argon or Krypton gas that was vacuum sealed between the two panes has escaped, leaving your window prone to condensation. This moisture can etch the glass, giving it clouds and misty reflections on both sides of the windows.
If you've recently installed your double glazing repair double glazing window it is possible that it could still be under warranty. In this situation, the original installer or window manufacturer may cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to fix the damaged seal, you will not be able to enjoy the same energy savings as a new replacement unit.
Often, the best alternative is to locate a local tradesman that specializes in double glazing repairs near me. This way, they will be able complete the task quickly and efficiently without the need for any major disruption to your home. Additionally, you will often be able to get a guarantee from the company you choose to hire that they will fix the problem for free should it happen again in the future.
It is also important to note that a double glazed repair isn't limited to the replacement of the glass units but also includes any door sundries, like doors and letterboxes, regardless of whether they are toughened safety glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They can become damaged or worn out over time, and must be replaced if they become difficult to open or drop or sag.