How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are several tell-tale signs that your double glazed windows require repairs. Evidently, water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are a clear indication of damage to your windows and should be fixed as soon as is possible.
Misting may also indicate that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals will solve the issue, and prevent leaks, draughts or condensation.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems that a double-glazed window faces is broken glass. Double pane windows are much harder to break than single-pane ones, accidents do occur and you'll want to repair a damaged window as soon as is possible.
Remove any loose glass fragments that could remain in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection while removing the glass as it can be very sharp. Examine the floor for fragments that have fallen off after the shards have been removed. It's also a good idea for you to pull out any hooks that hold the panes together.
After the glass has been removed, you can begin the process of removing the old compound and glazing points (small fasteners that pin the glass in the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. This is a time-consuming procedure and requires several tools to get the job done. You will need latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers a heatgun and a putty blade.
It is best to start at the top and work your way down when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will prevent getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to your tool. If you have to take off some of the wood from the sash, use an utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage.
When you're done make sure you scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. When the wood is smooth then you can seal it with clear wood sealer or linseed. This will shield it from water and further damage.
There are a few easy solutions you can try for a cracked double-pane window however, these methods won't fix the crack and should be used only as a temporary solution. Utilizing silicone caulk will help seal the gap. However it is crucial to use a high-quality caulk and the correct application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed water or mist between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of your windows has a broken seal. This could be a cause for concern because it blocks gas or the insulating air from getting trapped between the two glass panes, so it won't do its job effectively and can cause temperature fluctuations that cause condensation to form.
Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by a double glazing expert. Your window repair professional will take off the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then the gasket is blown in to create an airtight seal and prevent condensation from occurring in the future. They will also apply drying agents to help the area dry out and prevent the condensation from occurring again.
The other reason why you might notice a misty appearance between the glass panes of windows with double glazing is because the framework has shifted over time, which can break the all-important seal. This can be a serious problem, as your windows will not work effectively and lose energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed Window but this can be quite expensive and is typically only necessary if there are severe issues with the window that are beyond repair. If you're experiencing problems with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period then you might be able to repair it for free or at an affordable cost.
Review your warranty's terms prior to contacting the company to determine whether they can fix the issue without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You may find that the company is able to repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist to repair your double-glazed windows and will typically be able to do so quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better on the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
It could be a major problem if your window handle is damaged or broken, or if it is difficult to open. You will not be able use your windows. It could also give burglars the chance to break into your house. There are several solutions to this problem but the most effective solution is to connect with an uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the issue they are able to usually fix it for you, or at a minimum, give you a new handle.
There are many different kinds of window locks. However, the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock, and they are able to easily seize up. If this occurs, the handle's nose will remain in the popped out position and will not go back into the wedged locked position. This could be a annoying issue, but it can be solved with a few simple steps.
To fix the issue you'll need to remove the handle. This is simple enough with a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you will be aware of the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed and the handle is removed, you can employ pliers or a wrench to attempt to grab the shoot bolts. If this does not work then you can place the tool between the frame and the window (the gap may be different at the ends of the windows) and create an "u" shape using your hand to grab the bolts.
If you can manage to remove the bolts that shoot, then you can shut your window by adjusting the handle to the closed position. However, it won't be able to open again using the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts, thus the window will be opened by the handle (and will still be secure) however, you'll have to purchase a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't working properly and smoothly, you might need to repair or replace them. double glazing window repair could be due to them being opened with too much force the hinge dropping and snapping or they had a fault to begin with the issue could cause issues that make using your window difficult. Fortunately, replacing the hinge is easy and quick, so there's no need to buy windows from scratch and you can have your old windows repaired instead.
First, you'll need to remove the hinges currently installed. This is done by removing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. After the hinges have been removed then you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the proper size. The plywood should be thicker than the hinges that came with it to help support the weight of the window when it is opened and closed. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left by the hinges of the past will not leak or loosen.
After you've re-installed the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll have to paint them. Make sure to employ a top-quality paint to ensure that it will last for as long as possible. When the paint is dry and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. Regularly cleaning the track of friction and lubricating hinge mechanisms will make them last longer. You can also use wood preservatives to protect them from the elements. This will prevent corrosion and keep them looking good for the longest time you can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows and can help you save money on heating. As with any part of your home, your windows will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. If you're noticing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows aren't functioning properly it's worth having them looked at by our experts in Preston.