How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows need to be fixed. Water ingress or draughts through the frames are an obvious indication of window damage and must be fixed in the shortest time possible.
Misting may also indicate that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals can fix the issue and stop condensation, draughts, or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Double pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane windows, accidents do occur and you'll need to repair a broken window as soon as you can.
The first step to take is to remove any loose shards of glass that are still in the frame. Don't forget to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection while doing this, as glass can be very sharp. After the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for extra pieces of glass that may be left. Also, it's a good idea to search for any metal hooks that might be holding the panes together and remove them also.
Once the glass is removed then you can begin the process of removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small fasteners that pin the glass in the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It's a lengthy process that requires some tools. These include latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points; pliers; a heat gun; and a putty knife.
When you are removing the old glazing compound and points, it's best to start at the top of the sash, and begin to work your way down. This will stop any wood or paint that is removed from the sash from adhering to the tool. If you're looking to remove some of the wood from the sash, employ a utility knife or a chisel instead of chemical strippers which can cause damage.
After that you can sand the wood. When it's smooth then you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to safeguard it from future water damage.
There are a few simple fixes to repair cracks in a double-pane window. However, these solutions are not a solution to repair the damage and should be used as a temporary solution. Use of silicone caulk will help seal the gap. However it is crucial to use caulk of high-quality and with proper application methods.
Condensation
If you've noticed water or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows is suffering from a failing seal. This could be a major issue since it prevents gas or air that is used to insulate being trapped between two panes.
A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. To resolve the issue the window repair professional will take off the affected window sash and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket to create a strong and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from occurring again. They will also employ a drying agent to aid in drying the area out and prevent the condensation from recurring.
The other reason why you may see a haze between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the frame has moved over time, which can break the all-important seal. This can be a huge issue as your windows won't function properly and lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to replace double-glazed window's panes however, this can be costly and is usually only necessary when the window is beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period then you might be able to get it repaired at no cost or at lower cost.
It is worth checking the terms of your warranty before you contact the company to determine whether they can resolve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double glazed windows are generally covered by guarantees of between 10 to 20 years, which means you might find they are able to repair damaged window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist to repair your double glazed windows and will usually be in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a less expensive option than 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 damaged or difficult to open, it could be a major issue since it makes it impossible to use your windows. It could also give burglars a chance to gain entry into your home. There are a variety of options to fix it but the best option is to speak with a uPVC expert. They can fix the issue for you, or offer you a new 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 use bayonet style rods for locking and can easily seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it will not return to the wedged lock position. This can be a frustrating problem, but it can be fixed by following a few steps.
To resolve the issue you must first remove the handle. This should be easy enough with the aid of a screwdriver. After removing the handle you'll be able to see the screws that attach the lock to frame. Once the screws are removed, you can attempt to grab the bolts using an awl or a pair of pliers. If this fails it is possible to insert the tool through the gap between the window and frame (the gap can differ on the opposite side of the window) and create an "u" shape with your hands to attempt to grab the shoot bolts.
You can shut your window by moving the handle to a closed position if in a position to release the bolts that shoot. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is likely to be damaged and will not open when you pull the handle. You can refit the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts in order that the window will still be opened using the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are no functioning properly and smoothly, you might need to replace or repair them. If this is because of the hinges being opened by too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or if they were defective at the beginning, it can cause problems that make it difficult to use your window. Fortunately, replacing the hinge is simple and quick and there's no need to purchase windows from scratch - you can simply get your old ones fixed instead.
Remove the hinges. This is done by unscrewing the screws that hold 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 correct size. The plywood should be thicker than the original one to be able to withstand the weight of the window when it is opened and closed. You'll also want to use wood filler to ensure that the hole created by the hinge is filled completely and won't leak or become loose in the near future.
After you've filled in the holes and put on the hinges, then you'll require painting the doors. Be sure to apply a high-quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as it can. After the paint has dried, you can attach the window again. Secure any screws that are loose.
repairing double glazing is essential for window hinges. You can ensure they last longer by cleaning them regularly on the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply wood preservatives in order to shield them against the elements. This will stop rusting and keep them looking good for the longest time you can.
Double-glazed windows can help you reduce your heating bills, since it's more energy efficient than windows with only one glass. Like any other part of your home, your windows will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. Our Preston experts can help you if there are signs that your double-glazed windows aren't working properly.