Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates a thermal barrier to help lower energy costs. If they're damaged or fail to work properly, they can let cold or heat escape or intrude into your home, causing more expense to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
The majority of these issues can be easily fixed, preventing you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how to spot and fix common problems.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most frequent problems that double-glazed doors and windows confront. Cracks can occur due to a variety of reasons. If a pebble from a lawnmower flies into a window or an accident happens with a vase. Luckily, most are easy to fix. For the best results it is recommended to contact a double glazing professional. They'll have the tools and expertise to make sure the repair is as safe and efficient as it can be. They'll also offer the assurance of their work, which is something you wouldn't get by trying to repair the problem yourself.
A double glazing company can repair the mist that forms between two panes. To fix it they'll remove the glass that has been affected and clean the edges and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After this, a new seal should be made to stop the issue from occurring again.
Sometimes, double-glazed windows can develop cracks that extend all across both glass panes. This is usually the result of some sort of structural problem with the frame of the window and is a much more serious problem that requires repair, rather than replacing the glass in a single piece.
In addition to reducing heat and light transfer, cracks in your double-glazed glass can make your home look ugly and may even pose a risk if the crack is wide enough to allow debris or rainwater through. It is possible to keep your damaged windows and doors in working condition by placing a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can stop superficial cracks from getting more severe particularly stress cracks that are caused by temperature changes.
Often double glazing repairs involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or have sagged. If you don't own the proper tools, it could be risky and time-consuming to attempt to fix these issues yourself. If you're able to try, you can lubricate the mechanisms, hinges and handles with oil to see if that will help. If the issue is serious then contact the company that supplied you with the double glazing. They might be able to come out and repair it.
Misting
A double glazing expert can easily fix this problem. It occurs when the space between the panes is dirty, causing drops of water to become trapped within the glass. It can be very unsightly and is crucial to have it fixed as soon as possible. repairing double glazing windows is also a safety issue and can cause harm when people walk by the windows or even if children are playing in the area.
The mist that appears between windows could be caused by a variety of factors, including condensation, air infiltration or even growth of plants. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants such as orchids and air plants depend on moisture for survival. If you suspect that this is the case is the case, you should call an expert double glazing repair company to examine the issue. In some cases windows, the windows will only require cleaning. In other cases, it could be required for one or more panes to be replaced.
Another reason for misting is when the frame gets a little warped. This is usually the case in areas where there is extreme weather conditions. It could cause the frame to expand or shrink, which can cause the seal to crack. The good thing is that it is generally a simple fix that can be completed at the same time as other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or sagging could be due to fluctuations in temperature. To resolve this issue it is suggested to wipe the frames with cold water and lubricate the handles, mechanisms and hinges, and everywhere they pass through the frame. If the problem persists, it's worth checking if the company who sold you the double glazing has a warranty that addresses this issue and what the terms are.
Repairing double glazing is a cheaper and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. Before you decide to do any project, it is important to find a contractor who has been thoroughly vetted and verified by Checkatrade.
Draughts
A drafty door is one of the most common issues double glazing owners have to deal with. These cold winds are a huge expense and also deprive you of the warm, comfortable home you deserve.
Seals are included with new double-glazed units to keep out cold air while letting in warmth. However, these seals can be damaged over time, especially when they are constantly closed and opened to allow for air ventilation. This means that the insulating properties of your double glazing may be reduced, which could result in your heating bills rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The good news is that the majority of drafts can be repaired without the requirement for replacement doors or windows. A simple cleaning and lubrication routine on the hinges, mechanisms and handles should assist. If your sash windows have trouble closing correctly, you might also want to examine the locks. If you do find that your uPVC or double glazing is difficult to open or close, it's worth getting in touch with the company you purchased it from to find out what can be done.
A draught-proofing expert may also help you with some DIY projects around the house. They'll have access specific tools that can be used to identify and fix draughts from any location in your home. Choose a professional who is certified by Checkatrade accreditation. This means that they have been thoroughly vetted, and screened.
To find a draughtproofing specialist, visit the Checkatrade website and type in your postcode in the search box. This will show an inventory of traders in your area who are skilled in this kind of work.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap, especially if you can find a specialist who offers an initial quote. The cost will vary based on the size of your home and the number of draughts that are repaired. However the amount you can save on your energy bills is likely to exceed any costs associated with the treatment of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that hold your windows together may fail. This could cause various issues like 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 complete replacement. In some instances, this may require defogging or re-instating the argon glass units. This should be performed by a professional as the process can take a bit of time and requires a specialised vacuum pump to eliminate moisture, then fill the void with argon gas and then reseal.
Foggy windows are a clear sign that the seals have failed and the insulating argon or krypton gas that was sealed between the two panes has escaped and your window is now susceptible to condensation. This moisture can etch the glass, creating clouds and misty reflections on both sides of the windows.
If you have installed your double-glazed unit recently, it's possible that the warranty is still valid. In this case, either the original installer or the window manufacturer would cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the damaged seal, it is crucial to be aware that you won't get the same energy-saving benefits as from a brand new replacement unit.
The most effective option is to find a local tradesman that specializes in repairs to double-glazing near me. This way, they will be able to complete the task quickly and efficiently without any major disruption to your home. You will also receive an assurance that the business will correct the issue free of charge if it occurs again in the future.
It is also worth remembering that a double glazed repair isn't limited to the replacement of glass units but also includes any door sundries like letterboxes and doors - whether they're toughened security glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They may become damaged or worn out over time and will need to be replaced if they are difficult to open, fall or sag.