How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few telltale indications that your double glazed windows need repair. Draughts and water ingress are clear indications of damage to the window frames. They should be repaired in the shortest time possible.
Misting may also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the issue and stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Although double-pane windows are much harder to break than single-pane windows However, accidents do occur and you'll need to repair a broken window as soon as is possible.
Get rid of any glass fragments that might be in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection while removing the glass because it could be extremely sharp. After the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for any additional loose pieces. It's also a good idea for you to pull out any hooks that hold the panes together.
After the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small fasteners that pin the glass into the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long process that requires some tools. You will require latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers an electric heat gun, and a putty blade.
When removing the old glaze compound and points It's a good idea to start at the top of the sash, and begin to work your way down. This will stop any wood or paint that is removed from the sash from adhering to your tool. If you have to remove some of the wood from the sash use the utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage.
After you're done you can sand the wood. When the wood is smooth, you can seal it with clear or linseed wood sealer. This will protect it from future water damage.
You can make a few quick fixes to fix cracked double pane windows. However, these solutions won't fix the problem and should be used as a temporary solution. A silicone caulk can help to seal the gap, but it's important to ensure that you use a high-quality caulk and adhere to the correct application methods.
Condensation
If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing it means that the window seal isn't working. This can be a problem because it stops gas or the insulating air from being trapped between the two panes of glass, so it won't do its job effectively and can lead to temperature changes which can cause condensation to form.
A double glazing expert can easily fix this issue. Your window repair professional will take off both the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then a new gasket will be blown in to form an airtight seal to prevent condensation from occurring in the future. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to aid in drying the area and help stop the condensation from recurring.
You may also notice the glass panes are a little cloudy in a double-glazed windows in the event that the frame has changed position over time. This will break the seal. This can be a problem as it means that your windows will not function correctly and will lose energy efficiency.
While it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed window however, it can be extremely expensive and is normally only required if there are severe issues with the window that is beyond repair. If you're experiencing problems with your double-glazed window but are still within the warranty period, you may be able to repair it at no cost or at lower cost.
It is worth checking the terms of your warranty prior to you call the company to find out whether they are able to solve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double glazed windows are generally 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 case, they'll likely send a specialist to fix your double glazed windows and will usually be in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a much cheaper alternative to buying and installing brand new double glazed windows and is also more sustainable for the environment as well!
Broken Locks & Handles
It can be a big issue if your window handle is broken, or if it is difficult to open. You will not be able to use your windows. This also gives burglars the chance to gain entry into your home. There are many ways to fix this, but the best option is to speak with an uPVC professional. They can repair the problem for you, or give you a replacement handle.
There are a number of different types of window locks, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock and these are able to easily seize up. If this occurs, the handle's nose will remain in the out position and cannot be returned to the locked position wedged. This can be a very frustrating issue, but it can be solved with a few simple steps.
To fix the issue you'll need to take off the handle. This can be done easily enough using the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you should then be aware of the screws holding the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed, you can try to grab the bolts using a wrench or pair of pliers. If this fails, you may need 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 make a "u" shape with your hand to try to grab the shoot bolts.
You can close your window by moving the handle to a closed position if you are able to free the bolts for shooting. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is likely to be damaged, so it will not open by the handle. It is possible to repair the gearbox without the shoot bolts so the window can be opened with the handle (and it will remain secure) however, you'll need to order a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
It is possible to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they're not functioning smoothly. It could be because the window was opened too forcefully or the hinge snapped. They could also have a flaw. Luckily, replacing the hinge is quick and easy and doesn't require you to purchase windows from scratch - you can simply get your old windows repaired instead.
Remove the hinges. To do this, remove the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. After the hinges are removed, you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the correct size. The plywood should be more dense than the original to support the weight when the window is closed and opened. You'll also want to use a wood filler to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is filled completely and will not leak or loosen in the near future.
Once you've replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll have to paint them. Use a quality paint to make sure it lasts as long as possible. After double glazing repairs cost has dried, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is essential for hinges on windows. You can help them last longer by regularly cleaning the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply a wood preservative to protect them from the elements, which can help to stop corrosion and maintain their appearance for as long as possible.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows, and can save you money on heating. However, just like every other aspect of your home, windows will show wear and tear and could require repair or replacement over time. If you're experiencing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows aren't functioning properly, it's worth getting them looked at by our experts in Preston.