How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Water ingress and draughts are clear indicators of damage to frames of the windows. They must be fixed in the shortest time possible.
Misting may also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will solve the problem and prevent condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. 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 quickly as possible.
Remove any loose glass fragments that might remain in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection when removing the glass, as it can be very sharp. Once the shards are removed, check the floor of your home for any additional loose pieces. It is also an excellent idea to pull out any hooks that hold the panes together.
After the glass has been removed then you can begin the process of removing the old glass compound and glazing points (small fasteners that fix the glass into the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It's a lengthy process that requires the use of a few tools. You'll need latex glazing putty and metal glazing points, pliers heat gun and a putty blade.
When you are removing the old glazing compound and points it is recommended to begin at the top of the sash and work your way down. This will stop any wood or paint that is removed from the sash from sticking to your tool. Also, if you do end up removing some of the sash's wood, make sure you use a chisel or utility knife instead of a chemical stripper since this could cause damage.
After that, sand the bare wood. When it's smooth you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to protect it from water and future damage.
You can make some quick solutions to repair cracked double pane windows. However, these solutions are not a solution to repair the damage and should be used as an interim solution. A silicone caulk can help to seal the gap, but it is important to ensure that you use a high-quality caulk and follow proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed water 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 major issue as it stops the gas or air that acts as an insulation from being trapped between two panes.
A double glazing specialist can easily repair this problem. To correct the issue, your window contractor will take out 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 stop condensation from happening again. They'll also use a special drying agent to aid in drying the area and prevent the condensation from happening again.
There may be a the glass panes are a little cloudy in double-glazed windows, in the event that the frame has changed position over time. This could break the seal. This can be a huge problem, as your windows will not work effectively and lose energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed Windows, this can be very expensive and is typically only needed in the event of serious issues with a window that is beyond repair. However, if you've spotted the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty period it could be possible to get repaired for free or at a lower cost.
Check your warranty terms before making contact with the company to determine if they can resolve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double glazed windows are generally covered by warranties of between 10 and 20 years, so you might find that they're able to repair the damaged window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist to repair your double-glazed windows and will typically be in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a much cheaper option than 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 issue if the handle of your window is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You will not be able use your windows. This also gives burglars an opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are many options to address this issue, but the best option is to get in touch with a uPVC professional. They can repair the problem for you, or at the very least give you a replacement handle.
There are several types of window lock, however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly 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 locked position. This can be a frustrating problem, but it can be resolved with a few easy steps.
To fix the issue you'll need to remove the handle. This should be simple enough using the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you should then be able to see the screws holding the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed, you can employ pliers or a wrench to try to grab the shoot bolts. If this fails it is possible to insert the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap can be different at each end of the window) and make a "u" shape using your hands to try and grasp the bolts.
If you are able to free up the bolts for shooting, you can shut your window by moving the handle to the closed position. But it won't be able to open again with the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is most likely to be defective. 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 need to order the new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
It is possible to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they are not operating properly. Whether this is due to them having been opened by too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or if they were defective at the beginning and it causes problems that make using your window difficult. It's simple to repair the hinge so you don't need to purchase new windows.
Remove the hinges. To do this, unscrew the screws that attach the frame to the hinges. After you've removed your hinges, you can replace them with plywood boards that are cut to the proper dimensions. The plywood should be more dense than the original to support the weight of the window when it is closed and opened. Use wood filler to make sure the hole left behind by the old hinge does not leak or become loose.
After you've replaced hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Make sure you employ a top-quality paint to ensure that it will last as long as is possible. Once the paint is dry, you can reattach the window. Tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also essential for window hinges. Cleaning regularly the friction stay track and lubricating hinge mechanisms will make them last longer. You can also use wood preservatives to protect them from the elements. repairing double glazing windows will help prevent rusting and ensure they look 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 home, your windows will eventually require to be repaired or replaced. If you're seeing any indications that your double glazed windows aren't functioning properly, it's worth getting them checked by our experts in Preston.