14 Smart Ways To Spend Your Extra Money Double Glazed Repair Budget
Common Double Glazing Repairs Near Me
Double glazing provides a thermal barrier to help reduce energy bills. When they are damaged or do not function correctly, they may let heat or cold escape or enter, costing you more money to keep your home at a pleasant temperature.
Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be repaired and save you the expense of replacing your double glazing altogether. Here's how to spot and resolve common issues.
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 the lawnmowers that crashes against a window or an accident with your favorite vase, cracks are easy enough to happen and can be extremely frustrating. The majority of cracks can be repaired. You should always consult a double glazing specialist to get the best results. They'll have the tools and know-how to ensure that your repair is safe and effective. You'll receive a warranty on their work, which you will not get if you attempt to repair the work yourself.
A double glazing company can fix the mist that forms between two panes. To fix this they'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean up the edges, and then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it. After this an additional seal must be created to prevent the problem from recurring.
Double-glazed windows can develop cracks that span both panes. This is usually due to some sort of structural problem in the window frame. It is a much more serious problem that requires repairing than simply replacing one pane.
Cracks in double-glazed windows can be ugly, and they may even pose a safety risk if they are large enough to allow rainwater or debris pass through. You can keep your damaged windows and doors in good in good order by putting a strip of strong-hold adhesive tape on both sides. This can stop superficial cracks from getting worse and especially stress cracks caused by temperature fluctuations.
Double glazing repairs typically require fixing frames that are difficult to open or have gaps that have sagged. If you don't own the right tools, it could be risky and time-consuming to attempt to fix these issues yourself. Try lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles using oil if you can. If the issue is serious then contact the company who sold you the double glazing. They may be willing help you fix it.
Misting
Misting is a frequent issue for double-glazed windows and is easily fixed by a tradesperson who specialises in this kind of work. It occurs when the gap between the panes gets dirty and it causes the droplet of water to get trapped inside the glass. It can be very unsightly, so it's important to repair it as quickly as you can. It is also a safety issue and can cause harm in the event that people walk by the windows, or even when children play in the area.
The mist between windows can be the result of a range of factors such as condensation, air infiltration, or even growth of plants. This is particularly dangerous due to epiphytic plants, such as orchids and airplants 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 issue. In many cases, the windows will simply need to be wiped down however, in some instances it might be required to replace one or more of the panes.
A little warping of the frame could also result in misting. This is a common occurrence in areas with extreme weather conditions. The frame may expand or contract which causes the seal to fail. The good news is that this is generally a simple fix that can be completed simultaneously with other repairs.
Sagging or difficult-to-open double glazing is often the result of temperature fluctuations. It can be solved by wiping the frames clean with cold water and then lubricating handles hinges, mechanisms, and other points where they go through the frame. If the problem continues it is worth checking whether the company who sold you the double glazing comes with an insurance policy that covers this issue and what its terms are.
Repairing double glazing is a more affordable and more convenient alternative to replacing your windows. Before you decide to do any project, it is important to find a contractor who has been thoroughly vetted and verified by Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing owners typically have to deal with a breeze that is a nuisance at their doors. These gusts of cold air are a major waste of energy and they also deprive you of the cozy, warm home environment that you deserve.
When new double glazed units are installed, they come with seals that will keep the cold air out and the warmth in. However, these seals could break down over time, especially if they are constantly being shut and opened for air circulation. The insulating properties may be reduced. This can result in higher heating costs and a less comfortable home.
Most draughts can be repaired without having to replace windows or doors. Cleaning and lubricating the hinges, mechanisms and handles can be helpful. You might also need to examine your sash window's locks in case they're not closing properly. 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 business that you purchased it from to see what can be done.
Another alternative is to employ an expert in draught proofing to complete some DIY work around your home. They will have access to special tools that are able to find and fix the draughts in any area of your home. It is recommended to choose a tradesperson with Checkatrade accreditation to ensure that they've been thoroughly examined and vetted.
Enter your postcode into the search box on the Checkatrade site to locate an expert in draught-proofing. This will give you an inventory of local trader who are experts in this area.
Draught proofing can be relatively inexpensive, especially if you find a specialist that offers an estimate for free. The cost will differ based on the size of your house and the number of draughts that are discovered and fixed. However the amount you could save on your energy bill is likely to more than offset any costs associated with getting rid of your draughts.
Broken Seals
As time passes the seals that hold your multi-pane windows together can fail. This could cause a host of problems including misting, or even water damage. The good news is that a lot of double glazing companies can fix this for you, and even save the cost of a full replacement. In certain cases this could involve dissolving the glass and replacing the argon units. This should be done by a professional since it is a long procedure that requires a vacuum pump and an expert to remove the moisture and fill the voids with Argon.
Windows that are cloudy are a sure indication that the seals have failed and the insulating argon, or krypton gas that was vacuum sealed between the two panes has escaped, leaving your window prone to condensation. This moisture can then etch the glass, resulting in a cloudy or misty appearance that is not easily removed from either side of the window.
If you've recently put in your double glazing, it is possible that it may remain under warranty, and in this scenario, the original installer or window manufacturer will likely cover the cost of repair or replacement. If you decide to fix the damaged seal, you won't be able to enjoy the same energy savings as a replacement unit.
It is usually best to find a local double glazing repair specialist near me. This way, they'll be able to finish the job efficiently and quickly without any major disruption to your home. In addition, you'll typically be able to obtain a guarantee from the business you hire to solve the issue for free if it happens again in the future.
It is also important to note that a double-glazed repair doesn't just refer to the replacement of the glass units but also includes any door sundries like doors and letterboxes - regardless of whether they're toughened security glass or Georgian and leaded effects. They may be damaged or worn out over time, and should be replaced in the event that they become difficult to open or drop or slide.