How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few telltale signs that your double glazed windows need repair. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indicators of damage to frames of the windows. They must be fixed as soon as is possible.
Misting can also indicate that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the seals can fix the issue and will stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Double-pane windows are harder to break than single panes, however accidents can happen. You will want to repair the broken glass as soon as you can.
The first step is to take out any glass shards that are not completely removed that are still in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when you remove the glass because it is extremely sharp. Be sure to check the floor for loose pieces once the shards are gone. Also, it's an excellent idea to search for any hooks made of metal that might be holding the panes in place and remove them too.
After the glass has been 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 in the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It's a lengthy procedure that requires some tools. You will need latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers, an electric heat gun, and a putty blade.
It is recommended to start at the top and work your way down when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will help you avoid getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to the tool. If you're looking to remove a portion of the wood from the sash, make use of the utility knife or chipper instead of chemical strippers, which can cause damage.
When you're done, be sure to scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. When the wood is smooth, you can seal it with clear wood sealer or linseed. This will help protect it against water and future damage.
You can make a few simple fixes to repair a cracked double pane window. However, these solutions are not a solution to repair the damage and should only be used as a temporary solution. A silicone caulk can help to seal the gap, but you need to make sure that you use a top-quality caulk and adhere to the correct application techniques.
Condensation
If you notice any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing it is a sign that your window seal has failed. This can be a serious issue since it prevents gas or air that acts as an insulation from getting trapped between the two panes.
A double glazing expert can easily fix this issue. Your window repair professional will take off both the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then a new gasket will be blown in to form an airtight seal and prevent condensation from occurring in the future. They will also employ a drying agent to aid in drying the area out and stop 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 framework has shifted over time, which breaks the all-important seal. This can be a serious issue, since windows that are not functioning properly and lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to change a double-glazed window's glass, but this can be expensive and is usually only necessary if the window is beyond repair. If you have a problem with your double-glazed window and are still in the warranty period, you might be able to get it repaired for free or at an affordable cost.
It is worth checking the conditions of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they are able to resolve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. It is possible that the company can repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they will likely send out a specialist to repair your double-glazed windows. They're able to do this quickly. This is a much cheaper alternative to buying and installing brand new double glazed windows and is also more sustainable for the environment as well!
Broken Locks & Handles
It could be a major issue if the handle of your window is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You won't be able use your windows. This also gives burglars an opportunity to break into your home. There are a variety of ways to fix it however the most effective method is to call an uPVC expert. They can repair the problem for you, or at the very least offer you a new handle.
There are a number of different kinds of window locks. However, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority uPVC frames. These locks lock with rods in the form of bayonets that can easily jam. repairs to double glazing is stuck in the popped-out position, and it is unable to return to its wedged locked position. This can be a difficult issue, but it is able to be resolved with a few simple steps.
To resolve the issue to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle. This is easy enough using the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to see the screws that secure the lock to frame. After the screws have been removed you can then use a wrench or pliers to attempt to grasp the bolts that hold the shoot. If this is unsuccessful, you may need to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and the window (the gap can be different on each end of the window) and then make a "u" shape with your hands to try and grab the shoot bolts.
You can close your window by adjusting the handle to a closed position if you're in a position to release the shoot bolts. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is most likely damaged and will not open by the handle. It is possible to refit the gearbox without the shoot bolts, thus the window will be opened using the handle (and will still be secure), but you will need to order the new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are no working properly it is possible to replace or repair them. If this is because of them having been opened with too much force, the hinge dropping and snapping or if they were defective in the first place, it can cause problems that make it difficult to use your window. Thankfully, replacing the hinge is quick and easy and doesn't require you to buy windows from scratch and you can have your old ones fixed instead.
The first step is to take off the hinges that are currently in place. This is done by unscrewing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. After you've removed your hinges, you can replace them with plywood boards cut to the right size. Make sure that the plywood is larger than the original one so that it can withstand the weight of the window both open and closed. Use wood filler to ensure that the hole left behind by the hinge of the past will not leak or break.
After you've filled in the holes and put on hinges, you'll require painting the doors. Be sure to apply a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. After the paint has dried and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, which will help to prevent corrosion and keep them looking good for as long as is possible.
A double-glazed window can help you reduce your heating bills, because it's more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. However, just like every other part of your home, your windows will show wear and tear and could require repair or replacement in time. If you're experiencing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows aren't working properly, it's worth getting them looked at by our experts in Preston.