Forget Double Glazed Repair: 10 Reasons That You No Longer Need It
Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing creates a thermal barrier to help reduce energy bills. If they're damaged or aren't functioning correctly, heat or cold can escape or get into your home, increasing the cost to maintain an ideal temperature.
Many of these issues are easily fixed, preventing you from having to replace your double glazing. Here's how to identify and fix common problems.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed windows and doors have to deal with. It doesn't matter if it's a small piece from a lawnmower that falls against a window, or an accident with a favourite vase, cracks are easy enough to happen and can be extremely frustrating. Fortunately, they are usually easy to fix. It is recommended to seek out a double glazing expert to get the best results. They'll have the proper tools and knowledge to make sure your repair is as secure and efficient as it can be. You'll receive a warranty on their work, which you will not get if you try to fix the problem yourself.
Mist between your two double-glazed glass panes is another issue that can easily be fixed by a double glazing repair company. To do so they'll remove the glass that has been affected, clean up the edges, and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After repair double glazing windows is completed then a new seal will be created and the problem should not recur.
Double-glazed windows may develop cracks that extend across both panes. This is usually due to an problem with the window frame. It's an even more serious issue that requires repair than just replacing a single glass pane.
In addition to reducing light and heat transfer cracks in double-glazed glass will cause your home to look unsightly and may even pose a risk when the crack is large enough to allow debris or rainwater through. You can keep your cracked windows and doors in good order using a stripe of strong-hold adhesive tape on both sides. This can prevent superficial cracks from getting more severe, especially stress cracks caused by temperature fluctuations.
Double glazing repairs usually involve fixing frames that are difficult to open or have sagged. Making the effort to fix these issues yourself can be very time-consuming and could be risky if you don't have the right equipment. Try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms, and handles with oil if you can. If the issue is severe you should contact the company who sold you the double glazing. They might be able 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 a water droplet inside the glass. This can be quite unsightly and is crucial to get it fixed in the earliest time possible. It's also a security issue and can cause harm when people walk by the windows or even when children play in the area.
The mist that forms between windows can be caused by a number of things including condensation, air infiltration, and even plant growth. This is especially dangerous because epiphytic plants like orchids and air plants depend on moisture to thrive. If you suspect that this is the case, you should contact a professional repair service for double glazing and have them inspect the issue. In some cases windows, they may just need to be cleaned. However, in other instances, it could be required for one or several panes to be replaced.
Another reason for misting can be when the frame gets slightly distorted. This is usually the case in areas that experience extreme weather, and can cause the frame to expand or shrink and this could cause the seal to fail. The good news is that this is generally a simple fix that can be performed in conjunction with other repairs.
Sagging or difficult-to-open double glazing is often caused by temperature fluctuations and can be resolved by wiping the frames down with cold water and lubricating the handles, mechanisms, hinges and anywhere where they pass through the frame. This can often help resolve the issue, but if it continues and continues to linger, it's worth checking whether the company that you bought the double-glazed from has a warranty that covers this, and what the terms are of it.
Repairing double glazing is a less expensive and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. It is crucial to choose a tradesperson who has been checked and vetted by Checkatrade before signing any contract.
Draughts
Double glazing owners often have to contend with the draught that occurs in their doors. These cold breezes are a waste of energy, and they can also hinder you from enjoying a warm, comfortable home.
When new double glazed units are installed, they come with seals that will keep cold air out and the warmth in. These seals can break down over time if they're constantly open and closed to allow air ventilation. The insulating properties may be reduced. This could result in higher heating bills and a less pleasant home.
The good news is that most draughts can be corrected without the requirement for replacement doors or windows. A simple cleaning and lubrication routine for hinges, mechanisms and handles should aid. If your sash windows aren't closing correctly, you might be required to check the locks. If you find that your uPVC double glazing or uPVC windows are difficult to open or shut You should contact the company where you purchased it to inquire about what they can do.
A professional in draught-proofing can assist you with DIY projects around the home. They'll have access special tools that are able to find and fix the draughts in any area of your home. Choose a professional that has Checkatrade accreditation. This means that they have been thoroughly vetted, and screened.
Enter your postcode in the search box on the Checkatrade site to find an expert in draughtproofing. This will provide you with the names of local traders who are experts in this area.
Draught proofing is fairly inexpensive particularly if you locate a professional who provides a free quote service. The cost will depend on the size of the home and how many draughts are repaired. The amount of money that you could save by reducing your energy bill will likely be more than offset the cost.
Broken Seals
As time goes by, the seals that hold your windows together may fail. This could cause a variety of issues, such as misting and even water damage. Many double glazing companies will solve this issue for you, and save you the cost of a total replacement. In some instances, this may involve defogging or replacing glasses made of argon. This should be left to a professional because it is a lengthy process 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 failed and that the gas used to insulate argon or Krypton that was vacuum-sealed between the two panes of glass has disappeared. This leaves your window vulnerable to condensation. The moisture will then etch the glass and cause a cloudy or misty appearance that is not easily removed from either side of the window.
If you've recently put in your double-glazed unit, it is possible that it might remain under warranty. In this situation the original installer or window manufacturer will likely cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to repair the broken seal, you will not get the same savings in energy as a new replacement unit.
Most of the time, the best alternative is to locate a local tradesman that specializes in double glazing repairs near me. This way, they will be able complete the job efficiently and quickly without requiring any major disruption to your home. In addition, you will typically be able to obtain an assurance from the company you hire that they will solve the issue for free should it happen again in the future.
Make sure that a double-glazed repair does not only refer to the replacement glass units, but also any door sundries like 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 when they are difficult to open, fall or drop or.