Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing provides a thermal barrier to help reduce energy bills. When they are damaged or do not function properly, they can let heat or cold escape or get in, costing you more money to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Thankfully, most of these issues can be repaired which will save you the expense of replacing your double glazing completely. Here's how to spot and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most frequent problems that double-glazed doors and windows confront. Cracks can happen for a variety of reasons. It is possible that a small piece of a lawnmower flies into the window or a collision occurs when a vase is damaged. Cracks are usually easily repaired. Always consult a double glazing specialist for the best results. They'll have the tools and knowledge necessary to ensure that your repair is secure and effective. You'll be covered by a guarantee for their work, which you won't receive if you try to do the repair yourself.
Mist between the two double-glazed glass panes is another common problem that can be easily fixed by a double glazing repair company. To fix this, they will remove the glass pane that is affected clean the edges and then blow hot air into the gap in order to dry it. After this is done then a new seal will be created and the problem should not recur.
Occasionally, double glazed windows may develop cracks that extend all across the glass panes. This is usually due to an problem with the frame of the window. This is an issue that is more serious and requires repair rather than replacing the glass pane.
In addition to reducing light and heat 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. It is possible to 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 becoming worse particularly stress cracks caused by temperature changes.
Double glazing repairs typically involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or have been sagging. Attempting to fix these issues by yourself can be a long and tedious process and potentially risky if you don't have the right equipment. If you're able to try lubricating the mechanisms, hinges and handles with oil to see if that can help. If the issue is more serious then you should contact the company from whom you bought the double glazing. They may be willing to come out and fix it.
Misting
Misting is a common problem for double glazing, and it can easily be fixed by a tradesperson who specialises in this kind of work. It occurs when the space between the panes is dirty, which causes drops of water to form inside the glass. It's a very ugly sight and therefore it is important to fix it as soon as you can. This is a safety concern as it can be dangerous if people walk by the windows, or even when children are playing in front of the windows.
Mist in the windows could be caused by a number of things including condensation, air infiltration and even plant growth. This is especially dangerous, as epiphytic plants like orchids and airplants require moisture to survive. If you suspect this is the case, then you should consult a professional repair service for double glazing and ask them to examine the problem. In some instances, the windows may only need to be cleaned. However, in other cases it may be necessary for one or more panes to be replaced.
Another reason for misting can be when the frame gets slightly distorted. This is usually the case in areas that experience extreme weather and it can cause the frame shrink or expand and this can cause the seal to break. The good news is that this is typically a simple fix and can be completed simultaneously with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or is sagging can be caused by fluctuations in temperature. To fix this issue, you should wipe the frames with cold water and lubricate the handles, mechanisms, and hinges, as well as everywhere they go through the frame. This is often enough to resolve the issue, however if it persists you should consider investigating whether the business you bought the double glazing from has an insurance policy that covers this issue and what the terms are of it.
Repairing double glazing is a cheaper and more practical alternative to replacing your windows. It is essential to find a professional who has been checked and vetted by Checkatrade before committing to any work.
Draughts
Double glazing owners are often forced to contend with the draft that can be felt in their doors. These cold air gusts are a waste of energy and could prevent you from enjoying a warm, comfortable home.
Seals are a part of new double-glazed units that keep out cold air and let in heat. These seals can break down in time if they're continuously closed and opened to allow air flow. The insulation properties could be diminished. This can lead to higher heating costs and a more uncomfortable home.
Most draughts can be fixed without replacing windows or doors. Cleaning and lubricating hinges, mechanisms and handles can help. If your sash windows have trouble closing correctly, you might be required to check the locks. If you notice that your uPVC double-glazed or uPVC windows are difficult to open or close, you should contact the company from which you bought it to find out what they can do to help.
Another good option is to use an expert in draughtproofing to complete some DIY work around your home. They will have access to specific tools that are able to identify and fix draughts from any location in your home. Choose a tradesperson who is certified by Checkatrade accreditation. This will ensure they have been thoroughly vetted and checked.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade site to locate an expert in draught-proofing. This will provide you with the names of local traders who are proficient in this area.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap and affordable, particularly if you find a specialist who will provide an estimate for free. The cost will differ based on the size of your house and the number of draughts found and repaired. However, the amount of money you could save on your energy bills is likely to more than offset any cost associated with getting rid of your draughts.
double glazing repairers
As time passes, the seals that hold your multi-pane windows together could fail. This could cause numerous issues, including misting, or even water damage. Many double glazing companies can solve this issue for you, and save you the cost of a total replacement. In certain cases it may require defogging the glass, or re-instating the argon units. This should be performed by a professional, as the process may take some time and requires a specialist vacuum pump to remove moisture, then fill the gap with argon gas and then seal.
Foggy windows are an indication that the seals failed, and that the gas that insulates, Krypton or argon which was vacuum-sealed between the two panes of glass has been released. This makes your window susceptible to condensation. The moisture may etch the glass, creating an appearance of mist and cloudy on both sides of the windows.
If you've installed your double-glazed unit recently, it's possible that the warranty is still valid. In this instance either the original installer or the manufacturer of the window will cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to fix the damaged seal, you will not get the same savings in energy as a new replacement unit.
The most effective alternative is to locate a local tradesman who specialises in repairs to double-glazing near me. They will be able complete the job in a short time, efficiently and without causing any major disruptions 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 occur 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're Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They can be damaged or worn out over time and require replacement if they are difficult to open, fall or slide.