How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are several tell-tale indications that your double glazed windows require repair. Water ingress and draughts are clear indicators of damage to window frames. double glazing windows repair should be repaired in the shortest time possible.
Misting may also indicate that the 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 issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Double pane windows are much harder to break than single pane windows However, accidents do happen and you will want to repair a damaged window as quickly as possible.
Remove any loose glass fragments that may still remain in the frame. Be sure to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection while doing this, as glass can be very sharp. Once the shards have been removed, check the floor of your home for any additional loose pieces. It's also an excellent idea to remove any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.
After the glass has been removed then you can begin the process of removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small fasteners that fix the glass into the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long process that requires a few tools. You will need latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers, heat gun and a putty blade.
When removing the old glazing compound and points It's recommended to begin at the top of the sash and work your way down. This will stop any wood or paint from the sash from sticking to the tool. If you need to remove a portion of the wood from the sash, employ the utility knife or chisel instead of chemical strippers, which can cause damage.
When you're done, be sure to sand any bare wood to smooth it. When the wood is smooth, you can seal it with clear or linseed wood sealer. This will protect it against water and future damage.
You can make a few quick solutions to repair cracked double pane windows. However, these solutions will not repair the damage and should be used as an interim solution. Using a silicone caulk can aid in sealing the gap, but it is important to make sure that you use a high-quality caulk and follow proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it's a sign that one of your windows has a broken seal. This could be a cause for concern because it stops the gas or air that is used to insulate from getting trapped between the two glass panes which means it cannot do its job effectively and can cause temperature fluctuations that cause condensation to form.
Fortunately, this can be fixed by a double glazing expert. To resolve the issue, your window contractor will take off the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing into a new gasket to make a strong and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from occurring again. They'll also employ a drying agent to help dry out the area and prevent the condensation from occurring again.
The other reason why you may notice mist between the glass panes of windows with double glazing is because the framework has moved slightly over time, which can break the all-important seal. This can be a major issue as it means that your windows will not function correctly and will lose their energy efficiency.
While it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed Window however, it can be extremely expensive and is normally only required if there are severe issues with the window that are beyond repair. However, if you've discovered the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty time it could be possible to have the issue fixed for free or at least at a lower cost.
It is worth checking the terms of your warranty before you contact the company to see whether they are able to solve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows are usually covered by warranties of between 10 to 20 years, which means you may find that 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 fix your double glazed windows and will usually be able to do so quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
It could be a major problem if your window handle is broken, or if it is difficult to open. You won't be able use your windows. This can also give burglars an opportunity to break into your home. There are a number of ways to fix this, but the best option is to connect with a uPVC professional. Based on the severity of the problem, they can usually fix it for you, or at least provide you with a new handle.
There are many different kinds of window locks, but the most common is the Maco or Mila lock, which can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock and these can easily seize up. If this occurs, the handle's nase will be stuck in the out position and cannot be returned to the wedged locked position. This can be a very annoying issue, but it can be solved by following a few steps.
To fix the issue, you'll need to take off the handle. This is simple enough using the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed, you can try to grab the bolts using a wrench or pair of pliers. If this doesn't work it is possible to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and the window (the gap could differ on the opposite side of the window) and then make a "u" shape with your hand to attempt to grasp the bolts.
If you can manage to free up the bolts for shooting, you can close the window by adjusting the handle to the closed position. However, it won't open again with the handle, since the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts, which means that the window can be opened with the handle (and it will remain secure) However, you'll need to order an entirely new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't longer operating smoothly and smoothly, you might need to have them repaired or replaced. It could be that the window was opened too vigorously or the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a defect. It's easy to replace the hinge, so you don't need to purchase new windows.
First, you'll need remove the existing hinges. This is done by unscrewing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. Once the hinges have been removed then you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the correct size. Make sure that the plywood is larger than the original one to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window both shut and open. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left by the hinges of the past does not leak or become loose.
After you've filled in the holes and replaced hinges, you'll need to paint the doors. Use a quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as it can. After the paint has dried and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also important for window hinges. You can ensure they last longer by regularly cleaning the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply a wood preservative to protect them from the elements, which can help to prevent rust and keep them looking good 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, your windows will show wear and tear and could require replacement or repair over time. If you're seeing any indications that your double-glazed windows aren't working properly it's worth having them looked at by our experts in Preston.