Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates a thermal barrier to help reduce the cost of energy. If they're damaged or aren't functioning correctly, heat or cold could escape or enter your home, increasing the cost to maintain an ideal temperature.
Thankfully, most of these problems can be fixed which will save you the expense of replacing your double glazing completely. Here's how to identify and fix the most common problems.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most frequent problems that double-glazed doors and windows encounter. It doesn't matter if it's a small piece from a lawnmower that falls against a window, or an accident with your favorite vase, cracks are a common enough to happen and can be incredibly frustrating. The majority of cracks can be repaired. For the best results you should always contact a double glazing professional. They'll have the right tools and knowledge to ensure the repair is as safe and efficient as it can be. You'll receive a warranty on their work, which you will not get if you try to do the repair yourself.
A double glazing company can repair the mist that creates between two panes. To fix this, they will remove the affected glass pane, clean the edges and then blow hot air into the gap to dry it. After blown double glazing repair is completed then a new seal will be put in place and the problem should not occur again.
Sometimes, double-glazed windows can develop cracks that extend all across both glass panes. This is usually due to an problem with the frame of the window. It's an even more serious issue that needs to be fixed rather than replacing one glass pane.
In addition to reducing light and heat transfer, cracks in your double-glazed glass will cause your home to look unsightly and could even be dangerous when the crack is large enough to allow rainwater or debris through. It is possible to keep your damaged windows and doors in working condition by placing the strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help prevent superficial cracks from getting worse, particularly stress cracks caused by changing temperatures.
Most often double glazing repairs require fixing frames that are difficult to open or have been sagging. Making the effort to fix these issues on your own is time-consuming and even risky if you do not have the appropriate equipment. If you're able, try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles with oil to see if it can help. If the problem is serious, check with the company who sold you the double glazing. They might be willing to come out and repair it.
Misting
A double glazing expert can fix this issue easily. This occurs when the space between the panes gets dirty, causing an air droplet to enter the glass. It can be very unsightly and it's essential to repair it as quickly as you can. This is a safety concern because it could be a risk when people walk past the windows, or when children are playing in front.
The mist between windows can be caused from a variety of factors such as condensation, air infiltration or even plant growth. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants such as orchids and air plants depend on moisture to thrive. If you suspect that this is the case, you should contact an expert double glazing repair company to inspect the problem. In many cases the windows require cleaning but in other cases, it may be necessary to replace one or more of the panes.
Another reason for misting can be when the frame becomes a little warped. This is typical in areas that experience extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract and cause the seal to fail. The good news is that this is generally a simple fix that can be completed simultaneously with other repairs.
Difficult-to-open or sagging double glazing is often the result of temperature fluctuations and can be resolved by cleaning the frames with cold water and lubricating the handles hinges, mechanisms, and any other places they pass through the frame. If the problem persists, it's worth checking if the company that sold you the double glazing has a warranty covering this issue and what its terms are.
Repairing double glazing is a cheaper and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. It is essential to find a professional who has been vetted and checked by Checkatrade before signing any contract.
Draughts
Double glazing owners often have to deal with a breeze that is a nuisance around their doors. These cold breezes are unproductive and could hinder you from enjoying an inviting, warm home.
Seals are a part of new double-glazed units that keep out cold air while letting in heat. The seals could break as time passes if they're constantly opened and shut to allow air ventilation. The insulation properties can be reduced. This can result in higher heating costs and a more uncomfortable home.
The good news is that the majority of drafts can be repaired without the need for replacement windows or doors. A simple cleaning and lubrication routine on the hinges, mechanisms and handles should help. If your sash windows aren't closing correctly, you might also want to examine 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 bought it from to find out what you can do to fix it.
A draught-proofing expert can also assist you with DIY projects around the home. They'll have the equipment to correct draughts within any part of your home. It is a good idea to select a professional with Checkatrade accreditation as this will assure you that they have been thoroughly checked and vetted.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade site to find an expert in draught-proofing. This will provide you with a list of local traders who are skilled in this field.
Draught proofing is relatively cost-effective, especially if find a service that provides a free quotation service. The cost will vary depending on the size of your house and the number of draughts that are discovered and repaired. The amount of money that you can save by reducing your energy costs will likely more than offset the cost.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that hold your multi-pane windows together could fail. This can cause numerous issues, including misting, and even water damage. Many double glazing companies can solve this issue for you, saving you the cost of a total replacement. In some instances this could involve dissolving the glass and re-instating the argon units. This is best done by a professional since it is a lengthy procedure that requires a vacuum pump as well as an expert to remove the moisture and fill the gaps with Argon.
The windows that appear cloudy are a sign that the seals have failed and that the insulating gas Krypton or argon which was vacuum-sealed between two glass panes has disappeared. This makes your window vulnerable to condensation. This moisture can scratch the glass, giving it clouds and misty reflections on both sides of the windows.
If you have installed your double-glazed unit recently it is possible that the warranty is still valid. In this scenario, either the original installer or the window manufacturer will cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the damaged seal, you won't be able to enjoy the same energy savings as a replacement unit.
Often, the best solution is to find a local tradesman that specializes in repairs to double-glazing near me. This way, they will be able to complete the job quickly and effectively without the need for any major disruption to your home. Additionally, you can get an assurance that the business will repair the issue for free if the issue occurs again in the future.
Be aware that the term "double-glazed repair" does not only refer to the 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 will need to be replaced in the event that they are difficult to open, drop or slide.