How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are some telltale signs your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indications of damage to the frames of your windows. They should be repaired as quickly as possible.
Misting can also indicate that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will 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 panes, but accidents do happen. It is important to repair broken glass as soon as you can.
Remove any loose glass fragments that may still be inside the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves while removing the glass because it is extremely sharp. After the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for other pieces that are loose. It is also an excellent idea to remove any hooks that hold the panes together.
After the glass is removed and the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass into the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. This is a time-consuming procedure and requires some tools to complete the task. These include latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers; a heat gun; and a putty knife.
When removing the old glaze compound and points It's recommended to begin at the top of the sash, and begin to work your way down. This will ensure that you don't end up getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to the tool. If you're looking to remove some of the wood from the sash employ the utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers, which can cause damage.
After you're done then sand the wood. Once it is smooth, you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and further damage.
You can use some quick solutions to repair a cracked double pane window. However, these methods are not a solution to repair the damage and should only serve as an interim solution. The use of a silicone caulk may aid in sealing the gap, but it is important to ensure that you use a top-quality caulk that is applied using the proper techniques.
Condensation
If you notice any moisture or mist between the panes of glass that you have double glazing it is a sign that the window seal isn't working. This can be a problem because it stops the gas or air that is used to insulate from being trapped between the two panes of glass which means it cannot do its job effectively and will lead to temperature changes which can cause condensation to form.
Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by an expert in double glazing. Your window repair professional will take off both the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then a new gasket will be blown into to form an airtight seal to prevent condensation from occurring again. They'll also use a special drying agent to help dry out the area and stop the condensation from occurring again.
The other reason why you may notice mist between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the frame has moved over time, which breaks the all-important seal. This can be a huge problem, as windows that are not functioning effectively and lose energy efficiency.
It is possible to replace a double-glazed window's panes, but this can be expensive and is typically only needed when the window is beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed window and are still within the warranty period, you may be able to repair it at no cost or at a reduced price.
Review your warranty's terms prior to contacting the company to determine whether they can fix the issue without replacing the whole window. Double-glazed windows typically come with warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You might find that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double glazed windows and will usually be able to do so quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
If your window handle is broken or difficult to open, it can be a huge issue as it makes it impossible to use your windows. It also gives burglars a chance to gain entry into your home. There are a number of options to address this issue, but the best option is to get in touch with an uPVC professional. Based on the severity of the issue they will usually be able to fix it for you or at least provide you with an alternative handle.
There are a few different types of window lock, but the most common one is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock and these are very easy to seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position, and it is unable to return to the wedged lock position. This can be a frustrating problem, but can be resolved by following a few simple steps.
To resolve the issue to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle, which should be easy enough with the aid of a screwdriver. After removing the handle you'll be able to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts using an awl or a pair of pliers. If this fails it is possible to insert the tool into the gap between the window and frame (the gap may be different at each end of the window) and then make a "u" shape with your hand to try and grasp the bolts.
You can close your window by adjusting the handle to the closed position if you are able to free the bolts that shoot. The gearbox (espag, espagnolette, etc.) is likely to be damaged and won't open with the handle. local double glazing repair can refit the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts in order that the window can be opened by the handle.
Broken Hinges
You may need to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't operating properly. It could be due to them being opened with too much force the hinge dropping and snapping or they were defective at the beginning, it can cause problems that make it difficult to use your window. Luckily the replacement of the hinge is easy and quick and there's no need to buy windows from scratch - you can simply get your old windows repaired instead.
The first step is to remove the existing hinges. This is done by removing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. Once the hinges have been removed you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the right size. Make sure the plywood is more robust than the original board to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window when shut and open. You'll also need to use wood filler to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is filled completely and won't leak or become loose in the future.
After you've re-installed the hinges and filled the holes, you'll need to paint them. Use a quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. When the paint is dry and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Cleaning the friction stay track and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also use wood preservatives to shield them from the elements. This will help prevent corrosion and keep them looking great for as long as you possibly can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed ones, and can save you money on heating. But, just like any other component of your home, windows will show wear and tear and could require repair or replacement as time passes. Our Preston experts can help you if you observe any indications that the double-glazed windows you have aren't working properly.