How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows require to be repaired. Evidently, water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are a clear indication of window damage and should be fixed as soon as possible.
Misting may also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals can solve the issue and stop draughts, leaks or condensation.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems that a double-glazed window faces is broken glass. Double-pane windows are harder to break than single panes, however accidents do occur. It is important to repair the broken glass as soon as possible.
Remove any loose glass fragments that may still be in the frame. Don't forget to wear eye protection and gloves while doing this, as glass can be extremely sharp. After 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 remove any hooks that hold the panes together.
After the glass has been removed, you can begin the process of removing the old compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass into the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long process that requires some tools. This includes latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points; pliers; a heat gun, and a putty knife.
It is recommended to begin at the top and work your way downwards when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will ensure that you don't end up getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to your tool. If you do end up removing some of the sash's wood, make sure you employ a chisel, or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper as this can cause damage.
After you're done then sand the wood. Once the wood is smooth then you can seal it with linseed or clear wood sealer. This will help protect it against water and future damage.
There are a few simple fixes to repair a cracked double pane window. However, these solutions won't fix the problem and should only be used as a temporary solution. Use of silicone caulk will help seal the gap. However, it is important to use high-quality caulk with the correct application methods.
Condensation
If you notice any moisture or mist between your double glazing glass panes it is a sign that your window seal isn't working. This could be a significant problem as it prevents the gas or air that is used to insulate being trapped between two panes.
Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by an expert in double glazing. To resolve the issue, your window contractor will take off the affected window sash as well as the IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket to create a sturdy and airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to aid in drying the area and stop the condensation from occurring again.
Another reason you may notice mist between the glass panes of windows with double glazing is because the framework has shifted over time, which causes cracks in the all-important seal. This could be a problem as it means that your windows will not function correctly and will lose energy efficiency.
While it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed window however, it can be extremely expensive and is usually only needed if there are severe problems with the window that are beyond repair. If you're experiencing problems with your double-glazed window but are still within the warranty period, you might be able repair it at no cost or at lower cost.
Verify the warranty conditions prior to calling the company to find out whether they can solve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You might find that the company can fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case they'll likely send a professional to fix your double-glazed windows. They're able to do this quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to purchasing 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 can be a major issue since it prevents you from using your windows. It could also give burglars the chance to break into your house. There are a variety of ways to fix it, but the best way is to contact an uPVC expert. They will be able to fix the issue for you, or provide you with a replacement handle.
There are many kinds of window locks however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks which are typically found on uPVC frames. These locks use bayonet style rods to lock and these are able to easily seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it will not return to the wedged lock position. This can be a frustrating issue, but it can be resolved with a few easy steps.
To fix the issue you must first remove the handle, which should be easy enough with a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you should then 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 with the help of a wrench or a pair pliers. If this is unsuccessful, you may need 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 create an "u" shape using your hands to try to grasp the bolts.
You can close your window by moving the handle back to its closed position if you are in a position to release the shoot bolts. But it won't be able to be able to open again using the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts thus the window will be opened by the handle (and will still be secure) however, you'll require an entirely new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
It could be necessary to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they are not functioning smoothly. If this is because of them being opened with too much force the hinge dropping and snapping or they were defective in the first place, it can cause problems that make using your window difficult. repair double glazing windows , replacing the hinge is easy and quick and doesn't require you to purchase windows that are new - you can simply get your old ones fixed instead.
The first step is to remove the existing hinges. This is done by unscrewing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. Once you've removed the hinges you can replace them with plywood boards cut to the correct dimensions. The plywood should be thicker than the original to support the weight of the window when it is opened and closed. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left behind by the hinges of the past does not leak or break.
After you've re-installed the hinges and filled the holes, you'll have to paint them. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure it will last for as long as is possible. When the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. Regularly cleaning the friction stay track and lubricating hinge mechanisms will ensure they last longer. You can also use wood preservatives in order to shield them from the elements. This will prevent rusting and keep them looking great for the longest time you can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows, and can save you money on heating. Like any other part of your house windows will eventually require to be replaced or repaired. If you're experiencing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate it's worth having them examined by our experts in Preston.