How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are some telltale signs your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Draughts and water ingress are clear indicators of damage to frames of your windows. They must be fixed in the shortest time possible.
However, misting can also be a sign that your window seals need replacement. Replacing the seals can fix the problem and prevent condensation, draughts, or leaks.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed windows confront. While double pane windows are less likely to break than single-pane ones, accidents do occur and you'll need to fix a broken window as soon as you can.
The first step to take is to remove any loose shards of glass that remain in the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and eye protection while doing this, since glass can be extremely sharp. Once the shards are removed, check the floor of your home for additional loose pieces. Also, it is an excellent idea to look for any hooks of metal that may be keeping the panes in place and pull these out also.
Once the glass is removed, you will have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass in the frame of the window) and replace them with new ones. It is a long process that requires a few tools. double glazing window repairs includes latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points, pliers, a heat gun, and a putty knife.
It is recommended to start at the top and work your way down as you remove the old points and glazing compound. This will help you avoid getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to the tool. If you're looking to remove a portion of the wood from the sash employ the utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers, which can 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 repair cracked double pane windows. But these fixes are not a solution to repair the damage and should be used as an interim solution. A silicone caulk can aid in sealing the gap, but it is important to make sure that you use a high-quality caulk and adhere to the correct application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it's a sign that one of your windows has a failed seal. This could be a significant problem as it prevents the insulating gas or air from being trapped between two panes.
A double glazing specialist can easily fix this issue. To fix the problem your window company will take off the affected window sash as well as the IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket. This will create a sturdy and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from happening again. They will also use drying agents to aid in drying the area out and stop the condensation from happening again.
There may be a fog between glass panes in a double-glazed windows if the frame has moved over time. This will break the seal. This can be a problem since it means that your windows won't function properly and will lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to replace a double-glazed window's glass, but this can be expensive and is usually only required if the window is beyond repair. However, if you've discovered the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period, then it may be possible to have repaired for free or at least at a lesser cost.
It is worth checking the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to determine whether they can solve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically come with warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You might find that the company is able to repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to fix your double glazed windows and will usually be capable of doing it quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better on the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
If the handle on your window is damaged or difficult to open, it can be a huge issue as it hinders you from using your windows. This also gives burglars the opportunity to break into your home. There are a variety of solutions to address the issue, but the best way is to call a uPVC expert. They will be able to fix the issue for you, or give you a replacement handle.
There are several types of window lock, but the most common one 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. If this occurs, the handle's nose will remain in the popped out position, and cannot be returned to the locked position wedged. This can be a very difficult issue, but it can be fixed with a few simple steps.
To resolve the issue to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle, which is easy enough using a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to view the screws that attach the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed, you can use a wrench or pliers to try to grab the shoot bolts. If this fails then you can put the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap may be different at each end of the windows) and then make an "u" shape with your fingers to grasp the bolts.
If you manage to unblock the bolts for shooting, you can close your window by moving the handle to the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is likely to be damaged and will not open with the handle. You can refit the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts in order that the window can still be opened by the handle.
Broken Hinges
It is possible to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they're not functioning smoothly. Whether this is due to the hinges being opened with too much force the hinge snapping or dropping or they were defective in the first place the issue could cause issues that make using your window difficult. It's simple to replace the hinge, so you don't have to purchase new windows.
Take off the hinges. This is done by removing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. Once you've removed the hinges and replaced them with plywood boards that are cut to the right dimensions. Make sure that the plywood is larger than the original one to ensure it can support the weight of the window both open and closed. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left by the old hinge will not leak or loosen.
Once you've replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll have to paint them. Use a quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as it can. When the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is essential for hinges on windows. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply wood preservatives to protect them against the elements. This will stop corrosion and ensure they look great for as long as you can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed ones, and will save you money on heating. However, like any other part of your home, your windows are susceptible to wear and tear and could require repair or replacement as time passes. If you're seeing any indications 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.