How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few distinct indicators that indicate that your double-glazed windows require repairs. Draughts and water ingress are clear indications of damage to the frames of your windows. They should be repaired in the shortest time possible.
Misting can also indicate that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals will solve the issue and stop draughts, leaks or condensation.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most common problems that double-glazed windows have to face. Although double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane ones however, accidents can occur and you'll need to fix a broken window as soon as you can.
Remove any loose glass fragments that may still remain in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when you remove the glass as it can be very sharp. Once the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for extra pieces of glass that may be left. It is also an excellent idea to pull out any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.
Once the glass is removed and the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass into the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you'll need a few tools to accomplish the task. These include latex glazing putty; metal glazing points, pliers, a heat gun and a putty knife.
It's best to start at the top and work your way downwards as you remove the old points and glazing compound. This will stop any wood or paint that is left in the sash from sticking to the tool. Also, if you remove some of the sash's wood, ensure that you use a chisel or utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, since this could cause damage.
After that, sand the bare wood. Once it is smooth, you can apply Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to safeguard it from water and further damage.
You can use a few simple fixes to fix cracked double pane windows. But these fixes won't fix the problem and should be used as an interim solution. A silicone caulk can help seal the gap, but it's important to ensure that you use a high-quality caulk and follow proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you notice moisture or mist between the panes of glass that you have double glazing, this means 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 getting trapped between the two glass panes and therefore it can't perform 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. To correct the issue the window repair professional will take off the affected window sash as well as the IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket. This will create a strong and airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They will also apply drying agents to aid in drying the area out and prevent the condensation from happening again.
You may also notice the glass panes are a little cloudy in double-glazed windows, in the event that the frame has moved over time. This could crack the seal. This can be a major issue because it means your windows won't work correctly and will lose their 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 when there are serious problems with the window that is beyond repair. If you've noticed an issue with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty time it could be possible to have the issue fixed for free or at a lesser cost.
Review your warranty's terms prior to making contact with the company to determine if they can resolve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company is able to repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the situation they'll likely send a professional to fix your double-glazed windows. They can usually accomplish this in a short time. This is a cheaper alternative to buying and installing brand new double glazed windows, and it's more sustainable for the environment as well!
Broken Locks & Handles
It can be a big problem if your window handle is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You will not be able to open your windows. This could also give burglars an opportunity to break into your house. There are a few options to fix it, but the best way is to call a uPVC expert. Depending on the severity of the problem, they can usually come and repair it for you or at the very least, provide you with an alternative handle.
There are double glazing window repair of window locks, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks which are typically found on uPVC frames. These locks are secured with bayonet-style rods, which can easily be jammed. If this occurs, the handle's nase will be stuck in the popped out position and will not go back into the wedged locked position. This can be a annoying problem, but it can be resolved with a few simple steps.
To resolve the issue, you'll need to take off the handle. This can be done easily enough using the help of a screwdriver. After the handle is removed, you will be able to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed and the handle is removed, you can use a wrench or pliers to try and grab the shoot bolts. If this doesn't work then you might need to insert the tool through the gap between the window and frame (the gap can be different at each end of the window) and create a "u" shape using your hands to try to grab the shoot bolts.
If you manage to remove the bolts for shooting, you can close the window by moving the handle into the closed position. But it won't be able to open again by the handle because the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to repair the gearbox without the shoot bolts so the window can be opened using the handle (and will still be secure), but you will need to order a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
It could be necessary to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't functioning smoothly. It could be that the window was opened too tightly, or that the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a flaw. It's easy to fix the hinge, so you don't have to purchase new windows.
Take off the hinges. This is done by unscrewing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. After you've removed the hinges and replaced them with plywood boards that are cut to the proper size. Make sure that the plywood you choose to use is more robust than the original board so that it can withstand the weight of the window both shut and open. Use wood filler to make sure the hole left by the hinges of the past does not leak or become loose.
Once you've replaced the hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Make sure to employ a top-quality paint to ensure it will last as long as is possible. Once the paint is dry, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is essential for hinges on windows. You can ensure they last longer by regularly cleaning the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply wood preservatives in order to shield them against the elements. This will prevent rusting and keep them looking great for as long as you can.
Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating, since it's more energy efficient than windows with only one glass. However, just like every other aspect of your home, windows can suffer from wear and tear and could require replacement or repair over time. If you're noticing any indications that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate, it's worth getting them examined by our experts in Preston.