How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few distinct indicators that indicate that your double-glazed windows require repair. Water ingress and draughts are obvious indicators of damage to frames of your windows. They must be fixed as quickly as possible.
Misting may also indicate that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the issue and will stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems that a double-glazed window faces is broken glass. Double pane windows are much harder to break than single-pane windows However, accidents do happen and you will want to repair a broken window as quickly as possible.
Take out any glass fragments that could be in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection when you remove the glass because it is extremely sharp. Examine the floor for loose pieces once the shards have been removed. It's also a good idea for you to remove any metal hooks holding the panes together.
Once the glass is removed, you will have to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners which pin the glass in the window frame) and replace them with new ones. This can be a lengthy process and you will need some tools to complete the task. You will require latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers a heatgun and a putty blade.
It's best to start at the top and work your way down when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will prevent any wood or paint that is removed that is left in the sash from sticking to your tool. If you do remove some of the sash's wood, ensure that you employ a chisel, or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, as this can cause damage.
After you're done you can sand the wood. When it's smooth, you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and future damage.
There are a few simple fixes that you can try for a window that is cracked by a double-pane However, these solutions are not a solution to the crack and should be used only as a temporary measure. Using a silicone caulk can help to seal the gap, but it is important to ensure that you choose a high-quality caulk that is applied using the proper techniques.
Condensation
If you notice any moisture or mist between your double glazing glass panes it means that your window seal has failed. This could be a problem because it blocks gas or the insulating air from getting trapped between the two glass panes which means it cannot do its job properly and this can cause temperature fluctuations that result in condensation forming.
A double glazing specialist can fix this issue easily. The window company will take out both the window sash and window as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then the gasket is blown in to create an airtight seal, preventing condensation from happening again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to aid in drying the area and prevent the condensation from occurring again.
You may also notice mist between glass panes in double-glazed windows, if the frame has changed position over time. This can break the seal. This could be a problem as it means that your windows won't work correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
While it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed Windows, this can be very expensive and is normally only necessary in the event of serious problems with the window that are beyond repair. However, if you've discovered a fault in your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty period, then it may be possible to have repaired for free or at a lesser cost.
It's a good idea to check the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they are able to resolve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically come with warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You may find that the company can fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they will likely send a specialist out to fix your double-glazed windows. They usually can complete the task quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing brand-new double glazed windows and it's also better for the environment too!
Broken Locks & Handles
If your window handle is broken or hard to open, it can be a huge issue as it prevents you from using your windows. It can also give burglars an opportunity to break into your house. There are a variety of solutions to address the issue but the best option is to speak with a uPVC expert. Based on the severity of the issue they will usually be able to fix it for you, or at the very least, provide you with a replacement handle.
There are a number of different types of window locks, however the most common is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks are secured with rods in the form of bayonets that can easily be jammed. If this happens, the handle's nose will be stuck in the popped out position and will not go back into the wedged locked position. This can be a gruelling issue, but it can be resolved with just a few steps.
To fix the problem, you will need to first remove the handle. This should be easy enough with the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to view the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed, you can employ pliers or a wrench to try to grab the shoot bolts. If this doesn't work it is possible to insert the tool into the gap between the window and frame (the gap could differ on the opposite side of the window) and then make an "u" shape using your hands to attempt to grab the shoot bolts.
You can shut your window by moving the handle back to its closed position if you're capable of removing the bolts for shooting. But, it will not be able to open again using the handle, since the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) will probably be faulty. It is possible to repair the gearbox without the shoot bolts, which means that the window can be opened using the handle (and will still be secure) however, you'll need to order the new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't longer operating smoothly, you may need to have them repaired or replaced. Whether this is due to them having been opened with too much force, the hinge dropping and snapping or they were defective to begin with and it causes problems that make it difficult to use your window. Luckily the replacement of the hinge is quick and easy, so there's no need to buy a new window - you can simply get your old windows repaired instead.
Take off the hinges. To do this, loosen the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. Once you've removed the hinges, you can replace them with plywood boards that are cut to the proper dimensions. The plywood should be more dense than the original one to be able to withstand the weight when the window is opened and closed. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left by the hinges of the past does not leak or break.
After you've filled holes and replaced the hinges, you will have to paint the doors. Make sure repair double glazing use a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. When the paint is dry, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply a wood preservative to protect them from the elements, helping to stop corrosion and keep them looking good for as long as you can.
A double-glazed window can help you save money on heating costs, because it is more energy efficient than a single-glazed window. As with any part of your home windows, they will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. If you're experiencing any indications that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate, it's worth getting them examined by our experts in Preston.