How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows require to be repaired. Water ingress and draughts are clear indications of damage to the window frames. They should be repaired as soon as is possible.
Misting can also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will solve the issue and will stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Double-pane windows are less difficult to break than single panes, yet accidents can still happen. You will want to repair broken glass as soon as possible.
Take out any glass fragments that may still be inside the frame. Be sure to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection while doing this, since glass can be extremely sharp. After the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for extra pieces of glass that may be left. Also, it is a good idea to look for any metal hooks that may be keeping the panes in place and pull these out as well.
After the glass has been removed, you'll have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass into the frame of the window), and replace them with new ones. It's a lengthy procedure that requires the use of a few tools. You will require latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers, an electric heat gun, and a putty blade.
When removing the old glaze compound and points, it's recommended to begin at the top of the sash, and work your way down. This will ensure that you don't end up getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to your tool. Also, if you end up removing some of the sash's wood, make sure you use a chisel or utility knife instead of a chemical stripper because this could cause damage.
When you're done you can sand the wood. When it's smooth then you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to shield it from future water damage.
You can use some quick fixes to fix a cracked double pane window. But these fixes are not a solution to repair the damage and should only serve as a temporary solution. Using double glazing repairs can help seal the gap, but you need to make sure that you use a top-quality caulk that is applied using the proper techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed water or mist between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of your windows has a broken seal. This could be a cause for concern because it blocks gas or the insulating air from being trapped between the two glass panes which means it cannot do its job properly and this can cause temperature fluctuations that result in condensation forming.
Fortunately, the issue can be easily repaired by an expert in double glazing. To fix the problem your window company will remove the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket. This will create a sturdy and airtight seal to stop condensation from happening again. They will also apply drying agents to aid in drying the area out and stop the condensation from happening again.
There may be a the glass panes are a little cloudy in double-glazed windows if the frame has moved over time. This could crack the seal. This can be a huge issue, since your windows will not work correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to replace double-glazed window's panes however, it can be costly and is typically only needed when the window is beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed window but are still within the warranty period then you might be able get it repaired at no cost or at an affordable cost.
It's a good idea to check the terms of your warranty prior to you call the company to find out whether they are able to solve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows are usually covered by warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years, which means you may find that they can repair the faulty window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the situation they'll likely send out a specialist to repair your double-glazed windows. They usually can accomplish this in a short time. This is a much cheaper alternative to buying and installing brand-new double glazed windows and is also better for the environment too!
Broken Locks & Handles
It could be a major problem if your window handle is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You won't be able to open your windows. This also gives burglars the opportunity to break into your house. There are several ways to fix this however the most effective option is to connect with an uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the problem they are able to usually fix it for you or at least provide you with a new handle.
There are a few different kinds of window locks, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks which are typically found on uPVC frames. These locks utilize bayonet-style rods for locking and are very easy to seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it won't return to its wedged locked position. This can be a frustrating issue, but it can be solved by following a few simple steps.
To fix the problem you must first take off the handle, which is easy enough using a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you should then be able to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed, you may try to grab the bolts using a wrench or pair of pliers. If this doesn't work, you can insert the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap may differ at each end of the windows) and create an "u" shape with your hands to grasp the bolts.
You can close your window by moving the handle to the closed position if you are in a position to release the bolts that shoot. But it won't be able to open again with the handle because the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts, so that the window can still be opened by the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't functioning properly it is possible to repair or replace them. It could be because the window was opened too vigorously, or that the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a flaw. It's easy to repair the hinge so you don't need to buy new windows.
First, you'll need to remove the hinges currently installed. This is done by removing the screws that hold the hinges to the frame. Once the hinges have been removed, you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the correct size. Make sure 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 that the hole left behind by the hinges of the past will not leak or break.
After you've replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll need to paint them. Use a quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as is possible. Once the paint is dry it is possible to attach the window again. Secure any screws that are loose.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can ensure they last longer by cleaning them regularly on 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 corrosion and keep them looking great for as long as you can.
Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating costs, since it is more energy efficient than a single-glazed window. As with any part of your house windows will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. If you're seeing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows aren't working properly it's worth having them examined by our experts in Preston.