Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates a thermal barrier to help reduce energy bills. If they're damaged or fail to function properly, they can let heat or cold escape or intrude, costing you more money to keep your home at a pleasant 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 you can identify and fix common problems.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most frequent problems that double-glazed doors and windows encounter. If it's a pebble from the lawnmower that flies against the window or an accident with your favorite vase, cracks are easy to occur and can be incredibly frustrating. The majority of cracks can be repaired. You should always consult a double glazing specialist for the best results. They will have the tools and know-how to ensure that the repair is safe and effective. They'll also give you the assurance of their work which is something you won't get trying to repair the problem yourself.
Double glazing companies can repair the mist that is formed between two panes. To fix this, they'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean up the edges, and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After that, a new seal should be made to stop the issue from happening again.
Double-glazed windows may develop cracks that extend across both panes. This is usually due to a structural problem with the window frame. It is a more serious problem that requires repair rather than replacing the glass pane.
Cracks in double-glazed windows can be unsightly, and they could even pose a safety risk if they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris pass through. You can keep your cracked windows and doors in good order by applying a strip of strong-hold adhesive tape on both sides. This can prevent superficial cracks from worsening - especially stress cracks that are caused by fluctuating temperatures.
Double glazing repairs usually involve fixing frames that are difficult to open, or have gaps that have sagged. Fixing these issues on your own can be a long and tedious process and could be risky if you don't have the right equipment. If you're able to, try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil to see if it can help. If the problem is serious then contact the company that supplied you with the double glazing. They might be willing to visit and fix it.
Misting
Misting is a typical issue for double-glazed windows and can easily be fixed by a specialist tradesperson in this kind of work. It occurs when the space between the panes gets dirty and it causes the droplet of water to get trapped inside the glass. This can be very unappealing and it is essential to get it fixed as soon as possible. It's also a safety issue and can cause harm if people walk past the windows or even when children play in front of them.
Mist between the windows can be caused by a variety of things, including condensation air infiltration and even growth of plants. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants like orchids and air plants depend on moisture to thrive. If you suspect this, you should contact an experienced repair service for double glazing to look into the issue. In most cases, the windows require cleaning but in other cases it could be required to replace one or more panes.
A little warping of the frame can also cause misting. This happens most often in areas where there is extreme weather conditions. It can cause the frame to expand or shrink, which could cause the seal to fail. The good thing is that it is usually a simple fix and can be done in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or is sagging is often caused by temperatures that fluctuate. To fix this issue it is suggested to wipe the frames with cold water and grease the handles, mechanisms and hinges, and then everywhere they pass through the frame. If the problem persists you should check if the company who sold you the double glazing comes with a warranty that addresses this issue and what its conditions are.
Double repairs to your glazing are a affordable and less time-consuming alternative to replacing your windows. It is essential to choose a tradesperson who has been verified and checked by Checkatrade before making any commitment to work.
Draughts
A draught around your doors is one of the most common problems that double glazing owners have to confront. These cold breezes are a waste of energy, and they can also make it difficult to enjoy the warmth of your home.
When new double-glazed units are installed, they come with seals that keep cold air out and let the warmth in. These seals may break down over time if they're constantly open and closed to allow air ventilation. This means that the insulation properties of your double glazing could be reduced, leading to your heating bills rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
Most draughts are easily fixed without replacing doors or windows. A simple cleaning and lubrication routine on the handles, hinges and mechanisms can assist. It is also possible to inspect your sash window's locks if they aren't closing properly. If you notice that your uPVC double-glazed or uPVC windows double glaze repair near me are difficult to open or close, you should call the company from where you purchased it to see what they can do.
A draught-proofing expert may also assist you with DIY projects around your home. They'll have access specialist tools that are able to identify and fix draughts from any location in your home. It is a good idea to choose a contractor who has Checkatrade accreditation as this will ensure that they've been thoroughly vetted and checked.
To find a draught proofing specialist, go to the Checkatrade website and enter your postcode in the search box. This will provide you with a list of local traders who are experts in this area.
Draught proofing can be fairly affordable, particularly if you find a service that provides the service of a free quote. The cost will be based on the size of your home and the number of draughts that are fixed. The amount of money that you can save by reducing your energy bill will likely be more than offset the cost.
Broken Seals
As time is passed, the seals that hold the windows that have multiple panes together may fail. This can cause numerous issues, including misting, and even water damage. The good news is that many double glazing companies can solve this for you, and even save the cost of a full replacement. In some instances, this may involve defogging or replacing glasses made of argon. This should be done by a professional, as the process can take a bit of time and requires a specialised vacuum pump to remove moisture, refill the gap with argon gas and then seal.
Windows that are cloudy are a sure sign that the seals have failed and the insulating argon, or krypton gas that was sealed between the two panes has escaped and the window is prone to condensation. The moisture may etch the glass, resulting in clouds and misty reflections on both sides of the windows.
If you installed your double-glazed unit recently it is possible that the warranty is still valid. In this instance, either the original installer or the manufacturer of the window will pay for repair or replacement. If you decide to fix the damaged seal, you will not be able to enjoy the same energy savings as a replacement unit.
It is usually best to locate a local expert in double glazing repair near me. This way, they'll be able to finish the task quickly and efficiently without any major disruption to your home. You will also receive assurance that the company will correct the issue without cost if it occurs again in the future.
Remember that double-glazed repairs do not just refer to replacement glass units, but also to any door sundries like doors or letterboxes - regardless of whether they are Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They may be damaged or worn over time, and must be replaced too if they become difficult to open or drop or drop or sag.