Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates a thermal barrier to help reduce the cost of energy. If they're damaged or fail to function properly, they can let cold or heat escape or intrude and cost you more to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Thankfully, most of these problems can be repaired and save you the cost of replacing your double glazing altogether. Here's how you can identify and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
One of the most common issues double-glazed doors and windows encounter is broken glass. It doesn't matter if it's a small piece from the lawnmower that flies against a window, or an accident with a favorite vase, cracks are common enough to happen and can be extremely annoying. The majority of cracks can be repaired. To get the best results, you should always consult a double glazing professional. They'll have the tools and expertise to ensure that your repair is secure and effective. You'll receive a warranty on 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 which can be easily addressed by a double glazing repair company. To do this, they'll remove the glass pane that is affected, clean the edges and then blow hot air into the gap to dry it. Following this an additional seal must be put in place to prevent the issue from happening again.
Double-glazed windows can develop cracks that extend through both panes. This is usually due to an issue with the structure with the window frame and is a much more serious issue that requires repairing than simply replacing one pane.
Cracks in double-glazed windows can be unsightly, and they could even be a danger to your safety if they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris enter. It is possible to keep your broken doors and windows in good in good order by placing the strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can prevent superficial cracks from getting worse and especially stress cracks caused by temperature changes.
Most often double glazing repairs include fixing frames that are difficult to open or have stretched. Making the effort to fix these issues yourself is time-consuming and potentially risky if you do not have the proper equipment. Try making sure that you are lubricating the hinges, mechanisms, and handles with oil if you are able to. If the problem is more severe, you should check with the company from which you purchased your double glazing. They might be willing to help out and repair it.
Misting
A double glazing expert can easily solve this issue. It happens when the space between the panes becomes dirty, resulting in drops of water to form inside the glass. This can be quite unsightly and it is essential to fix it as soon as possible. It's also a safety issue that could cause harm if people walk past the windows or children playing in the area.
The mist that forms between windows can be caused by a number of things, including condensation air infiltration and even growth of plants. The latter is particularly dangerous since epiphytic plants such as orchids and air plants rely on moisture for survival. If you suspect that this is the case, then you should contact a professional double glazing repair company and ask them to examine the problem. In most cases, the windows require cleaning however in some cases it might be required to replace one or more panes.
Another cause of misting is when the frame is slightly distorted. This is usually the case in areas with extreme weather, and can cause the frame expand or shrink and this can cause the seal to fail. The good thing is that it is typically a simple fix and can be done in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or is sagging is often caused by fluctuations in temperature. To solve this problem, you should wipe the frames with cold water and lubricate the handles, mechanisms, and hinges, as well as everywhere they go through the frame. If the problem persists, it's worth checking if the company that supplied you with the double-glazed unit has a warranty that addresses this issue and what its terms are.
Repairing double glazing is a more affordable and more efficient alternative to replacing your windows. It is important to find a professional who has been verified and checked by Checkatrade before signing any contract.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to contend with the draught that occurs at their doors. These cold winds are a big waste of energy and they also take away the warm, comfortable home you deserve.
When new double-glazed units are installed, they are equipped with seals to keep cold air out while allowing the warmth in. However, these seals can become damaged as time passes, particularly when they are continuously shut and opened for air ventilation. This means that the insulating properties of your double glazing could be diminished, resulting in your heating bills going up and your home becoming less comfortable.
The positive side is that the majority of draughts can be fixed without the requirement for replacement windows or doors. Lubricating and cleaning hinges, mechanisms and handles can be helpful. If your sash windows aren't closing properly, you may also need to check the locks. If you discover that your uPVC or double glazing is difficult to close or open it's a good idea to get in touch with the company that you purchased it from to find out what you can do to fix it.
Another alternative is to employ a draught proofing expert to do some DIY work on your home. They will have access to specific tools that can be used to find and fix draughts from any location in your home. Choose a tradesperson who has Checkatrade accreditation. This will ensure that they have been thoroughly vetted and checked.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to find an expert in draught-proofing. It will display an inventory of traders in your area who are proficient in this type of work.
Draught proofing is relatively inexpensive, especially if you locate a professional who offers a free quotation service. The cost will vary depending on the size of your house and the amount of draughts that are discovered and fixed. However, the amount of money you could save on your energy bills is likely to exceed any costs associated with the treatment of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time goes by, the seals that keep your multi-pane windows together may fail. This can lead to numerous issues, including misting, or even water damage. Many double glazing companies can fix this problem for you, and save you the cost of a complete replacement. In certain cases, this will involve defogging or replacing glass units made of argon. This is best left to a professional as it is a long procedure that requires a vacuum pump as well as a specialist 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 leaked out and your window is now susceptible to condensation. This moisture can etch the glass, resulting in a cloudy and misty appearance on either side of the windows.
If you've installed your double glazing recently, it's possible that the warranty is still valid. In this case, either the original installer or the manufacturer of the window would cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the damaged seal, you won't get the same savings in energy that you would with a new replacement unit.
The most effective alternative is to locate an expert local tradesman who specializes in double glazing repairs near me. This way, they'll be able to finish the job quickly and effectively without the need for any major disruption to your home. In addition, you will often be able to get a guarantee from the company you hire that they will fix the problem for free should it occur 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 letterboxes or doors - regardless of whether they are Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They can become damaged or worn out over time and need to be replaced in the event that they are difficult to open, drop or sag.