Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing is a thermal barrier that helps reduce the cost of energy. When they are damaged or fail to function properly, they can let heat or cold escape or enter, costing you more money to keep your home at a pleasant temperature.
Most of these problems are easily fixed, preventing you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how you can identify and fix common problems.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed doors and windows have to deal with. Whether it is a pebble from the lawnmower that flies against a window or an accident with a favorite vase, cracks are easy to occur and can be incredibly frustrating. Fortunately, the majority are simple to fix. For the best results you should always consult a double glazing professional. They'll have the proper tools and knowledge to ensure the repair is as safe and efficient as it can be. They'll also provide a guarantee for their work, something you won't get doing the repair yourself.
Mist between the two double-glazed glass panes is another frequent issue that can be easily fixed by an expert repair service for double glazing. To do this, they will remove the glass pane affected clean the edges, then blow hot air into the gap to dry it. After this, a new seal should be put in place to prevent the issue from occurring again.
Sometimes, double-glazed windows may develop cracks that go all the way through both glass panes. This is usually due to a structural problem with the frame of the window. It is a more serious problem that requires repair than just replacing a single glass pane.
In addition to reducing heat and light transfer, cracks in your double-glazed glass can make your home look ugly and can even be dangerous If the crack is wide enough to allow rainwater or debris through. It is possible to keep your broken 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 and especially stress cracks that are caused by temperature changes.
Double glazing repairs often involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or have been sagging. Fixing these issues yourself is time-consuming and even risky if you do not have the right equipment. If you're able try, you can lubricate the hinges, mechanisms, and handles with oil to see if it helps. If the problem is more severe, you should check with the company through which you purchased your double glazing. They might be willing to help out and fix it.
Misting
A double glazing expert can fix this issue easily. This occurs when the space between the panes gets dirty, causing a water droplet inside the glass. This can be very unappealing and it is essential to get it fixed in the earliest time possible. It's also a safety issue and could cause injury in the event that people walk by the windows, or even children playing in the area.
The mist that appears between windows could be caused by a variety of things like condensation, air infiltration or even growth of plants. This is especially hazardous because epiphytic plants such as orchids and airplants depend on moisture to survive. If you suspect that this is the case, you should contact an experienced double glazing repair company to look into the issue. In some instances, the windows may only need to be cleaned. However, in other instances, it could be necessary for one or more panes to be replaced.
Another reason for misting is when the frame becomes slightly warped. This is typical in areas that experience extreme weather conditions. The frame can expand or contract and cause the seal to fail. The good thing is that it is generally a simple fix that can be performed at the same time as other repairs.
Sagging or difficult-to-open double glazing is often caused by temperature fluctuations and can be resolved by wiping the frames down with cold water and lubricating the handles, mechanisms, hinges and anywhere where they pass through the frame. If the issue persists it is worth checking whether the company who sold you the double glazing comes with an insurance policy that covers the issue and what its conditions are.
Double glazing repairs are a much cheaper and easier option than replacing your windows. Before you commit to any work, it's important to find a contractor who has been thoroughly vetted and checked by Checkatrade.
Draughts
A drafty door is one of the most common problems that double glazing owners have to confront. These cold breezes are a huge waste of energy and they also rob you of the warm, comfortable living space you deserve.
When new double-glazed units are installed, they come with seals that will keep the cold air out while allowing the warmth in. The seals could break in time if they're continuously opened and shut to allow air circulation. The insulation properties could be reduced. This can result in higher heating costs and a less pleasant home.
Most draughts can be repaired without having to replace windows or doors. Lubricating and cleaning the hinges, mechanisms and handles can be helpful. You may also want to examine the locks on your sash window in case they're not closing properly. If you find that your uPVC double-glazed or uPVC windows are difficult to open or shut it is recommended that you call the company from where you purchased it to inquire about what they can do to help.
Another good option is to use a draught proofing expert to do some DIY work on your home. They'll have the tools to fix draughts in any part of your home. Choose a tradesperson who has Checkatrade accreditation. This means they have been thoroughly vetted, and screened.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade website to find an expert in draughtproofing. This will provide you with the names of local traders who are proficient in this field.
Draught proofing is relatively inexpensive, especially if you find a specialist that offers an estimate for free. The cost will vary based on the size of your home and the number of draughts that are repaired. However the amount you could save on your energy bills is likely to exceed the costs of getting rid of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that hold your multi-pane windows together may fail. double glazing repairs near me This could cause a variety of issues, such as misting, and even water damage. Many double glazing companies will solve this issue for you, saving you the expense of a full replacement. In certain cases it may require defogging the glass, or re-instating the argon units. This should be left to a professional because it can be a lengthy procedure that requires a vacuum pump as well as a specialist to eliminate moisture and refill the empty spaces with the argon.
Foggy windows are an indication that the seals failed and that the insulating gas argon or Krypton that was vacuum-sealed between the two glass panes has been released. This leaves your window vulnerable to condensation. This moisture can scratch the glass, giving it a cloudy and misty appearance on both sides of the windows.
If you have recently installed your double glazing, it is possible that it may remain under warranty. In this situation the original installer or manufacturer will probably provide the repair or replacement cost. If you decide to fix the damaged seal, you will not get the same savings in energy as a new replacement unit.
Most of the time, the best solution is to find an expert local tradesman who specializes in repairs to double glazing near me. They will be able to complete the task quickly, efficiently and without causing major disruptions to your home. In addition, you'll typically be able to obtain a guarantee from the business you hire that they will repair the issue at no cost should it happen again in the future.
Make sure that the term "double-glazed repair" does not only refer to the replacement glass units, but also door sundries, such as doors or letterboxes, regardless of whether they are Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They may become damaged or worn out over time and will need to be replaced when they are difficult to open, drop or sag.