Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates an insulation layer 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, thereby increasing the cost of maintaining an ideal temperature.
Most of these problems are easily fixed, preventing you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how to spot and fix common issues.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems double glazed windows and doors experience is broken glass. Whether it is a pebble from the lawnmowers that crashes against a window or an accident with your favorite vase, cracks are common to occur and can be incredibly frustrating. Fortunately, the majority are simple to fix. To get the best results, you should always consult a double glazing professional. They'll have the tools and know-how to ensure your repair is as secure and efficient as it can be. They'll also provide the assurance of their work, something you wouldn't get by attempting the repair yourself.
A double glazing company can eliminate the mist that is formed between two panes. To fix this, they'll take off the glass pane that is affected, clean the edges and then blow hot air into the gap in order to dry it. Once this has been done, a new seal will be put in place and the issue will not recur.
Occasionally, double glazed windows may form cracks that go all through the glass panes. This is usually caused by an issue with the window frame. This is an issue that is more serious and needs to be fixed rather than replacing one glass pane.
In addition to reducing light and heat transfer cracks in double-glazed glass will make your home look ugly and can even be dangerous when the crack is large enough to allow debris or rainwater through. You can sometimes keep your broken windows and doors in working condition by placing a strip of strong-hold tape on both sides of the crack. This can help prevent superficial cracks from getting worse - especially stress cracks triggered by fluctuating temperatures.
Often, double glazing repairs will require fixing frames that are difficult to open or that have been sagging. If you don't have the right tools, it could be risky and time-consuming to try and fix these problems yourself. Try making sure that you are lubricating the hinges, mechanisms, and handles with oil if you are able to. If the issue is more severe, you should check with the company from whom you bought your double glazing. They may be willing to come out and repair it.
Misting
A double glazing specialist can fix this issue easily. It occurs when the space between the panes becomes dirty, which causes an air droplet to enter the glass. It's a very ugly sight, so it's important to fix it as soon as you can. This is a safety concern because it could be a risk if people walk by the windows, or when children play in front of it.
Mist between the windows can be caused by a variety of factors, including condensation, air infiltration, and even growth of plants. The latter is especially risky because epiphytic plants like orchids and air plants rely on moisture to survive. If you suspect this is the case, you should consult a professional repair service for double glazing and have them inspect the issue. In certain cases windows, the windows will only need to be cleaned. However, in other instances, it could be required for one or more panes to be replaced.
A small amount of warping in the frame may also cause misting. This is common in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract, causing the seal to fail. This is a fairly simple fix that can be carried out together with other repairs.
Double glazing that is difficult to open or sagging is often the result of temperatures that fluctuate and can be resolved by wiping the frames down with cold water and lubricating handles, mechanisms, hinges and other points where they go through the frame. This can often help solve the issue however if it persists, then it is worth investigating whether the business you bought the double glazing from has an insurance policy that covers this, and what the terms are of it.
Double repair of your windows is a cheaper and easier option than replacing your windows. Before you commit to any work, it's essential to choose a contractor who has been vetted and checked by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to deal with a draught that occurs around their doors. These cold breezes are a waste of energy and could prevent you from enjoying an inviting, warm home.
Seals are part of the new double-glazed units, which keep out cold air and let in heat. These seals may break down in time if they're continuously open and closed to allow air flow. This means that the insulation properties of your double-glazed windows could be reduced, which could result in the cost of heating rising and your home becoming less comfortable.
The good news is that the majority of draughts can be fixed without the necessity of replacing windows or doors. A simple cleaning and lubrication routine on the handles, hinges and mechanisms will help. You may also want to check the locks on your sash window if they aren't closing properly. If you discover that your uPVC or double glazing isn't easy to open or close, it's worth getting in touch with the company that you purchased it from to see what you can do to fix it.
A draught-proofing expert may also assist you with DIY projects around your home. They'll have access specific tools that can be used to locate and repair draughts from any location in your home. Select a contractor that has Checkatrade accreditation. This will ensure they have been thoroughly vetted, and screened.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade site to locate an expert in draught-proofing. This will bring up the list of local traders who are proficient in this kind of work.
Draught proofing is relatively cheap and affordable, particularly if you find a specialist who offers an initial quote. The cost double glazing repairs blackpool will be based on the size of the home and how many draughts are fixed. However, the amount of money you can save on your energy bills is likely to more than offset any costs associated with getting rid of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the seals that keep your multi-pane windows together may fail. This can cause various issues like 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 could involve dissolving the glass and re-instating the argon units. This should be left to a professional as it is a long procedure that requires a vacuum pump as well as an expert to remove the moisture and fill the gaps with the argon.
Foggy windows are an indication that the seals have failed and that the insulating gas argon or Krypton that was sealed by vacuum between the two panes of glass has escaped. This makes your window vulnerable to condensation. This moisture can then etch the glass and cause clouds or mists that cannot be removed from the window's side or.
If you've recently installed your double glazing it is possible that it may still be under warranty. In this situation the original installer or manufacturer will likely 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.
It is usually best to locate a local double glazing repair specialist near me. This way, they will be able to complete the job quickly and effectively without any major disruption to your home. Additionally, you will typically be able to obtain 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 a double-glazed repair does not only mean replacement glass units, but also to any door sundries like doors or letterboxes, regardless of whether they are Georgian and leaded glass or toughened safety glass. They may become damaged or worn out over time and require replacement if they are difficult to open, drop or slide.