How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are several tell-tale indications that your double glazed windows require repairs. Water ingress and draughts are obvious indicators of damage to frames of your windows. They must be fixed as soon as is possible.
Misting may also indicate that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals can solve the issue, and will stop leaks, draughts, or condensation.
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 panes, yet accidents can happen. It is important to repair the damaged glass as quickly as you can.
Remove any loose glass fragments that could be in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection while removing the glass as it can be very sharp. Once the shards are removed, inspect the floor of your home for additional loose pieces. Also, it's a good idea to search for any metal hooks that could be holding the panes in place and take them out too.
Once the glass is removed, you will need to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners which pin the glass to the frame of the window), and replace them with new ones. It's a lengthy procedure that requires a few tools. These include latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers; heat gun, and a putty knife.
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 prevent any paint or wood from the sash from adhering to the tool. Also, 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.
When you're done ensure that you scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. Once it's smooth then you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and future damage.
There are a few simple fixes you can attempt for a cracked double-pane window however, these methods won't fix the crack and should only be used as a temporary solution. Use of silicone caulk will help to seal the gap. However it is essential to use a high-quality caulk and proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows has a broken seal. This can be a problem because it stops the insulating air or gas from getting trapped between the two panes of glass and therefore it can't perform its job effectively and will lead to temperature changes which can cause condensation to form.
Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by a double glazing expert. To correct the issue, your window contractor will take out the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket to create a strong and airtight seal that will stop condensation from happening again. They'll also employ a drying agent to help dry the area and stop the condensation from occurring again.
There may be a fog between glass panes in a double-glazed windows if the frame has changed position over time. This can break the seal. This could be a major issue, since windows that are not functioning properly and lose their energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed Window but this can be quite expensive and is usually only required in the event of serious problems with the window that is beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period, you might be able repair it at no cost or for a reduced price.
It's a good idea to check the terms of your warranty before you call the company to find out whether they are able to resolve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows are usually covered by warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years, which means you may find that they're able to repair the faulty window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the situation they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows. They usually can do this quickly. This is a much cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand-new double glazed windows, and it's better for the environment too!
Broken Locks & Handles
If your window handle is damaged or difficult to open, it could be a major problem as it prevents you from using your windows. It also gives burglars the chance to break into your house. There are a number of solutions to this problem however the most effective option is to connect with a uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the problem they will usually be able to come and repair it for you or at least provide you with an alternative handle.
There are several kinds of window locks but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks that are found on most uPVC frames. These locks use bayonet style rods to lock and these can easily seize up. If this occurs, the handle's nose will be stuck in the popped out position and won't be able to return to the locked wedge. This can be a frustrating problem, but can be resolved with just a few steps.
To fix the problem you must first remove the handle, which should be easy enough with the aid of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to see the screws that secure the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed you can then 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 window and frame (the gap may be different at each end of the window) and then make a "u" shape with your hands to try to grab the shoot bolts.
You can shut your window by moving the handle back to its closed position if you are in a position to release the bolts that shoot. However, it won't open again by the handle because 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 using the handle (and is still secure), but you will have to purchase a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
It could be necessary to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't functioning smoothly. It could be that the window was opened too forcefully, or that the hinge snapped. It could also be that they have a defect. It's simple to repair the hinge which means you don't have to purchase new windows.
Remove the hinges. To do this, unscrew the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. After the hinges have been removed you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the proper size. Make sure that the plywood is thicker than the original board to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window when shut and open. It is also recommended to fill the hole with wood to ensure that the hole left by the old hinge is filled completely and will not leak or loosen in the near future.
After you've re-installed hinges and filled the holes, you'll have to paint them. Make sure you apply a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as is possible. Once the paint has dried and you are able to reattach the window. Tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. double glazing repair 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. This will stop rusting and keep them looking good for as long as you possibly can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows, and will save you money on heating. Like any other part of your home windows, they will eventually require to be replaced or repaired. If you're seeing any of the signs that your double glazed windows are struggling to operate and aren't working properly, you should have them looked at by our experts in Preston.