How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are some telltale signs your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are a clear indication of damage to your windows and must be fixed as soon as possible.
Misting can also indicate that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the window seals will solve the issue and prevent leaks, draughts or condensation.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed windows face. Double-pane windows are harder to break than single panes, yet accidents do happen. It is important to repair a broken glass as soon as possible.
The first step is to remove any loose shards of glass that are still in the frame. Be sure to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection while doing this, as glass can be sharp. Check the floor for any fragments that are not fixed after the shards have been removed. It is also recommended 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 pin the glass to the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long-winded process and you will need a few tools to accomplish the task. You will need latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers a heatgun and a putty blade.
It is recommended to start at the top and work your way down in removing the old points and glazing compound. This will help you avoid getting any of the paint or sash's wood stuck to your tool. If you need to remove a portion of the wood from the sash employ a utility knife or a Chisel instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage.
After that then sand the wood. When the wood is smooth, you can seal it with linseed or clear wood sealer. This will shield it from water and further damage.
There are a few simple solutions you can try to repair a damaged double-pane window however, these methods are not a solution to the crack and should only be used as a temporary fix. Utilizing silicone caulk will aid in sealing the gap. However it is essential to use a high-quality caulk and the correct application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed water or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows has a broken seal. This could be a problem because it prevents the gas or air that is used to insulate from getting trapped between the two glass panes, so it won't do its job correctly and this can cause temperature fluctuations that cause condensation to form.
A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. Your window contractor will remove both the window sash and window as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then the gasket will be blown in to create an airtight seal, preventing condensation from happening again. They'll also use a special drying agent to help dry the area and prevent the condensation from happening again.
Another reason you may notice mist between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the framework has moved slightly over time, which causes cracks in the crucial seal. This can be a major issue since it means that your windows will not function correctly and lose their 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 required in the event of serious problems with the 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, then it may be possible to get the issue fixed for free or at a lower cost.
It's a good idea to check the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to determine whether they are able to resolve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically come with an assurance of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company is able to repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the situation they'll likely send a professional to fix your double-glazed windows. They can usually complete the task 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
It could be a major issue if the handle of your window is damaged or broken, or if it is difficult to open. You won't be able to open your windows. This could also give burglars an opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are double glazing repair near me to fix it but the best option is to contact an uPVC expert. They can repair the problem for you, or give you a replacement handle.
There are several kinds of window locks but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. They lock using rods in the form of bayonets that can easily be jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position, and it is unable to return to its wedged locked position. This can be a gruelling problem, but can be solved with a few easy steps.
To fix the issue, you'll need to remove the handle. This should be simple enough with the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to see the screws that attach the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed, you can attempt to grab the bolts using the help of a wrench or a pair pliers. If this doesn't work it is possible 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 create a "u" shape with your hands to try to grasp the bolts.
You can shut your window by adjusting the handle back to its closed position if capable of removing the bolts for shooting. However, it won't open again by the handle because the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) will probably be faulty. It is possible to repair the gearbox without the shoot bolts thus the window will be opened with the handle (and will still be secure) however, you'll have to purchase a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
You may need to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they are not operating smoothly. If this is because of them having been opened with too much force the hinge snapping or dropping or they had a fault at the beginning, it can cause problems that make using your window difficult. It's easy to fix 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, remove the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. After you've removed the hinges you can replace them with plywood boards that are cut to the right dimensions. Make sure that the plywood is thicker than the original board to ensure it can support the weight of the window both open and closed. It is also recommended to use a wood filler to ensure that the hole created by the hinge is completely filled and won't leak or become loose in the future.
After you've filled in the holes and replaced the hinges, you will require painting the doors. Use a good paint to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. After the paint has dried it is possible to reattach the window. Make sure you tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can make them last longer by regularly cleaning the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply wood preservatives to shield them from the elements, which will help to prevent rust and keep them looking great for as long as you can.
Having a double glazed window can help you reduce your heating bills, because it's more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. As with any part of your house windows will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. If you're noticing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows aren't functioning properly, it's worth getting them examined by our experts in Preston.