How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are certain indicators that tell you your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Evidently, water infiltration or draughts that enter the frames are a clear indication of window damage and should be repaired as soon as is possible.
The misting could also mean that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the issue and will stop condensation, draughts, or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single panes, yet accidents can occur. You should repair the broken glass as soon as you can.
The first step to take is to remove any glass shards that are not completely removed that remain in the frame. Be sure to wear eye protection and gloves while doing this, as glass can be sharp. After the shards have been removed, check the floor of your home for other pieces that are loose. It is also recommended to pull out any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.
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 window frame) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long process that requires some tools. These include latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points; pliers; heat gun, and a putty knife.
It is recommended to begin at the top and work your way downwards as you remove the old points and glazing compound. This will keep any wood or paint from the sash from adhering to the tool. If you need to take off some of the wood from the sash employ the utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers, which can cause damage.
After that you can sand the wood. When it's smooth, you can apply Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to protect it from water and future damage.
There are a few easy fixes you can attempt to repair a damaged double-pane window However, these solutions will not repair the crack and should be used only as a temporary solution. Use of silicone caulk will aid in sealing the gap. However repairing double glazing is crucial to use caulk of high-quality and with the correct application methods.
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 is suffering from a failing seal. This can be a serious issue since it prevents gas or air that acts as an insulation from being trapped between two panes.
Fortunately, this can be fixed by a double glazing expert. To fix the problem the window repair professional will take out the affected window sash and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket to make a strong and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from happening again. They will also apply drying agents to help the area dry out and stop the condensation from recurring.
Another reason you may see a haze between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the framework has moved slightly over time, which breaks the all-important seal. This can be a huge problem, as your windows will not work effectively and lose energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Window however, it can be extremely expensive and is usually only required when there are serious problems with the window that are beyond repair. If you've noticed an issue with your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty time and the window is still in good condition, it might be possible to have the issue fixed for free or at a reduced cost.
It's worth checking the terms of your warranty before you contact the company to determine whether they are able to resolve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have a guarantee of 10 to 20 years. You may find that the company can fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the situation, they will likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows. They're able to complete the task 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 hard to open, it could be a huge issue as it makes it impossible to use your windows. This also gives burglars the opportunity to break into your home. There are a number of solutions to this problem however the most effective option is to connect with an uPVC professional. They can fix the issue for you, or at least provide you with a replacement handle.
There are several types of window lock, but the most common one is the Maco or Mila locks which are typically found on uPVC frames. These locks use bayonet style rods for locking and are very easy to seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it will not return to the wedged locked position. This could be a annoying issue, but it can be fixed by following a few steps.
To fix the issue you'll need to take off the handle. This can be done easily enough with a screwdriver. After removing the handle you will be able see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed, you can attempt to grab the bolts with the help of a wrench or a pair pliers. If this doesn't work, you may need to insert the tool into the gap between the window and frame (the gap may be different on each end of the window) and then make an "u" shape with your hands to try and grab the shoot bolts.
If you can manage to unblock the bolts for shooting, you can close your window by adjusting the handle into the closed position. But, it will not open again with the handle, since the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) will probably be faulty. It is possible to repair the gearbox without the shoot bolts so the window can be opened using the handle (and is still secure), but you will need to order the new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are no functioning properly, you may need to have them repaired or replaced. It could be because the window was opened too vigorously or the hinge snapped. It could also be that they have a problem. It's easy to repair the hinge which means you don't have to purchase new windows.
First, you'll need to take off the hinges that are currently in place. To do this, loosen the screws that attach the frame to the hinges. After the hinges have been removed you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the right size. The plywood should be thicker than the original one to be able to withstand the weight of the window when it is shut and opened. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left behind by the hinges of the past will not leak or break.
After you've filled holes and replaced hinges, you'll need to paint the doors. Make sure to use a high-quality paint to ensure that it will last for as long as it can. Once the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is essential for window hinges. You can ensure they last longer by regularly cleaning the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives to shield them from the elements. This will stop corrosion and keep them looking great for the longest time you can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows and can help you save money on heating. As with any part of your home windows will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. Our Preston experts are able to assist you if you observe any signs that your double-glazed windows aren't working correctly.