Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing provides a thermal barrier to help reduce energy bills. If they are damaged, or do not work correctly, heat or cold can escape or enter your home, causing an increase in cost to maintain an ideal temperature.
Many of these issues are easily repaired, saving you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how you can identify and fix common problems.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems double glazed windows and doors experience is broken glass. Cracks can happen for a variety of reasons. Whether a pebble from a lawnmower flies into the window, or an accident occurs in a vase. Cracks are usually easily repaired. You should always consult a double glazing specialist for the best results. They'll have the tools and know-how to make sure your repair is as secure and as efficient as is possible. They'll also give you an assurance 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 do so, 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 that, a new seal should be put in place to prevent the problem from recurring.
Sometimes, double-glazed windows can form cracks that go all across both glass panes. This is usually caused by an problem with the window frame. This is an even more serious issue that requires repair than just replacing the glass pane.
Cracks in double-glazed windows are ugly, and they may even pose a safety risk when they are large enough to let rainwater or debris through. It is possible to keep damaged doors and windows in good order by using a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can stop superficial cracks from getting worse, especially stress cracks caused by temperature changes.
Double glazing repairs often require fixing frames that are difficult to open, or have been sagging. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it could be risky and time-consuming attempt to fix these issues yourself. Try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil if are able to. If the issue is serious, check with the company that supplied you with the double glazing. They may be willing help you fix it.
Misting
Misting is a common problem for double glazing and it can be easily solved by a specialist tradesperson in this kind of work. It occurs when the space between the panes gets dirty, resulting in a water droplet inside the glass. It can be very unsightly and it is essential to have it fixed as soon as possible. It's also a security issue that could cause harm when people walk by the windows or even if children are playing in front of them.
The mist between windows can be caused from a variety of causes, including condensation, air infiltration or even growth of plants. blown double glazing repair is especially dangerous since epiphytic plants such as orchids and air plants depend on moisture to survive. If you suspect 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 windows, they may just need to be cleaned. In other cases it may be required for one or more panes to be replaced.
Another cause of misting is when the frame becomes slightly distorted. This is common in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract, causing the seal to fail. The good news is that this is usually a simple fix and can be performed simultaneously with other repairs.
Sagging or difficult-to-open double glazing is usually caused by temperature fluctuations and can be fixed by wiping the frames down with cold water and lubricating the handles hinges, mechanisms, and other points where they go through the frame. If the problem continues, it's worth checking if the company that supplied you with the double glazing has a warranty covering the issue and what its terms are.
Repairing double glazing is a cheaper and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. Before committing to any work, it is essential to choose a contractor who has been thoroughly vetted and checked by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to contend with the draft that can be felt around their doors. These cold winds are a huge waste of energy and they also rob you of the comfortable, warm home environment that you deserve.
When new double glazed units are installed, they come with seals that will keep cold air out and let the warmth in. These seals may break down in time if they're continuously closed and opened to allow air ventilation. The insulation properties can be reduced. This can result in higher heating bills and a less comfortable home.
Most draughts are easily fixed without replacing windows or doors. Cleaning and lubricating handles, hinges and mechanisms will help. If your sash windows aren't closing properly, you may be required to check the locks. If you find that your uPVC or double glazing is difficult to close or open, it's worth getting in touch with the business you purchased it from to find out what they can do.
Another alternative is to hire an expert in draughtproofing to carry out some DIY work around your home. They'll have the tools to repair draughts in any room of your home. It is a good idea to select a professional with Checkatrade accreditation to assure you that they have been thoroughly vetted and checked.
To find a draughtproofing specialist, go to the Checkatrade website and type in your postcode in the search box. This will give you the names of local traders who are proficient in this field.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap, especially if you can find a specialist who will provide an initial quote. The cost will depend on the size of the house and how many draughts are fixed. The amount you can save by reducing your energy bills will likely more than offset the costs.
Broken Seals
As time goes by, the seals that hold your multi-paned windows together can fail. This can lead to a range of problems, including water damage and misting. Many double glazing companies can fix this problem for you, saving you the cost of a total replacement. In some cases this will involve defogging or re-instating argon glass units. This should be done by a professional since it is a lengthy process that requires a vacuum pump as well as an expert to remove moisture and refill the gaps with argon.
The windows that appear cloudy are a clear sign that the seals have 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 scratch the glass, creating a cloudy and misty appearance on both sides of the windows.
If you've recently installed your double glazing, it is possible that it might still be under warranty, and in this scenario, the original installer or window manufacturer will likely provide the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the broken seal instead, it's important to know that you will not get the same energy-saving benefits as from the brand new replacement unit.
Most of the time, the best alternative is to locate a local tradesman that specializes in double glazing repairs near me. They will be able to complete the task quickly, efficiently and without causing major disruptions to your home. In addition, you will typically be able to obtain an assurance from the company you choose to hire that they will fix the problem for free if it happens again in the future.
Be aware that double-glazed repairs do not only mean replacement glass units, but also to any door sundries such as doors or letterboxes - regardless of whether they're Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They can become damaged or worn out over time, and need to be replaced if they become difficult to open, or drop or drop or sag.