Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing can help reduce energy bills by creating a thermal barrier. If they are damaged, or aren't functioning properly, heat or cold can escape or get into your home, increasing the cost to maintain an ideal temperature.
Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be fixed which will save you the cost of replacing your double-glazing completely. Here's how you can identify and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
One of the most common issues double-glazed windows and doors experience is broken glass. Cracks can occur for many reasons. Whether a pebble from a lawnmower flies into a window or a collision occurs when a vase is damaged. Fortunately, they are usually easy to fix. Always seek the advice of a double glazing expert to get the best results. They'll have the tools and knowledge necessary to ensure that your repair is safe and efficient. 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 panes of double-glazed glass is another common problem that can easily be fixed by a double glazing repair company. To do so they'll take off the affected pane of glass and clean the edges and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After that the seal needs to be created to prevent the issue from occurring again.
Sometimes, double-glazed windows may form cracks that go all the way through both glass panes. This is usually due to an issue with the structure 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.
Cracks in double-glazed windows can be unattractive, and could even pose a safety risk if they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris enter. glaziers near me can keep your damaged doors and windows in working order using a stripe of strong-hold adhesive tape on both sides. This can help keep superficial cracks from getting worse - especially stress cracks triggered by fluctuating temperatures.
Double glazing repairs often involve fixing frames that are difficult to open, or have been sagging. If you don't own the right tools, it could be risky and time-consuming attempt to fix these issues yourself. If you're able try, you can lubricate the hinges, mechanisms, and handles with oil to see if it can help. If the problem is serious then contact the company that supplied you with the double glazing. They might be willing to come out and repair it.
Misting
A double glazing expert can easily solve this issue. It happens when the space between the panes gets dirty, resulting in a water droplet inside the glass. It's a very ugly sight, so it's important to fix it as soon as you can. It is also a safety issue and can cause harm when people walk by the windows or even if children are playing in front of them.
Mist in the windows could be caused by a variety of things including condensation, air infiltration, and even plant growth. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants like orchids and air plants rely on moisture for survival. If you suspect that this is the case is the case, it is best to contact an experienced double glazing repair company to examine the issue. In most cases, the windows will simply require cleaning however in some cases it could be required to replace one or more panes.
A little warping of the frame may also cause misting. This is a common occurrence in areas that experience extreme weather conditions. The frame can expand or contract, causing the seal to fail. The good news is that this is typically a simple fix and can be completed in conjunction with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or sagging could be due to fluctuations in temperature. To fix this issue it is suggested to wipe the frames with cold water, grease the handles, mechanisms, and hinges, and then everywhere they pass through the frame. This will often help to solve the issue but if it continues, then it is worth making sure that the company that you bought the double-glazed from has an insurance policy that covers this and what the conditions of it.
Repairing double glazing is a less expensive 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 deal with a draft that can be felt around their doors. These cold breezes are an energy waste, and they can also make it difficult to enjoy an inviting, warm home.
When new double glazed units are installed, they come with seals that keep cold air out and the heat in. The seals could break over time if they're constantly closed and opened to allow air circulation. This means that the insulation properties of your double-glazed windows could be reduced, leading to the cost of heating 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. Lubricating and cleaning hinges, mechanisms and handles will help. You may also want to check the locks on your sash window, especially when they're not closing correctly. If you notice that your uPVC double-glazed or uPVC windows are difficult to open or shut You should call the company from where you bought it to find out what they can do.
Another good alternative is to hire a draught proofing expert to complete some DIY work on your home. They will have specialist tools to repair draughts in any room of your home. It is a good idea to select a professional with Checkatrade accreditation as this will ensure that they have been thoroughly vetted and checked.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade site to find a specialist in draught-proofing. It will display an inventory of traders in your area who are skilled in this type of work.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap and affordable, particularly if you find a specialist who offers an initial quote. The cost will differ based on the size of your house and the number of draughts that are found and repaired. However the amount you'll save on your energy bill is likely to more than offset the costs of the treatment of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that keep your multi-pane windows together may fail. This can cause a number of issues, including water damage and misting. Many double glazing companies will fix this problem for you, saving you the cost of a complete replacement. In some instances, this may involve defogging or replacing glasses made of argon. This is best left to a professional because it is a long procedure that requires a vacuum pump and a specialist to remove water and fill the empty spaces with the argon.
Windows that are cloudy are a sure 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 scratch the glass, resulting in a cloudy and misty appearance 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 instance, either the original installer or the manufacturer of the window would cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you opt to repair the damaged seal, it is important to understand that you will not receive the same energy-saving benefits as from the brand new replacement unit.
The most effective solution is to find a local tradesman who specialises in repairs to double glazing near me. They will be able complete the job quickly, effectively and without causing major disruptions to your home. Additionally, you can get assurance that the company will repair the issue free of charge if it occurs again in the future.
It is important to remember that a double-glazed repair doesn't just refer to the replacement of glass units, but also any door sundries, like letterboxes and doors - whether they are toughened safety glass or Georgian and leaded effect. They may become damaged or worn out over time and will require replacement if they are difficult to open, drop or sag.