How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few distinct signs that your double glazed windows require repairs. Water ingress or draughts through the frames are an obvious sign of damage to the window and will need to be repaired as soon as possible.
Misting may also indicate that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will solve the issue and will stop condensation, draughts, or leaks.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most frequent problems that double-glazed windows face. Although double-pane windows are much harder to break than single pane windows however, accidents can happen and you will want to repair a damaged window as soon as you can.
Remove any loose glass fragments that might be inside the frame. Be sure to wear eye protection and gloves while doing this, since glass can be extremely sharp. Once the shards have been removed, look around the floor of your home for any extra pieces of glass that may be left. Also, it's recommended to search for any hooks of metal that may be keeping the panes in place and pull these out also.
Once the glass has been removed, you'll have to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass into the window frame) and replace them with new ones. It is a long process that requires a few tools. You will need latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers, a heatgun and a putty blade.
When you are removing the old glazing compound and points It's a good idea to start at the top of the sash, and move down. This will prevent any wood or paint that is left in the sash from sticking to the tool. If you need to take off some of the wood from the sash, employ a utility knife or a chisel instead of chemical strippers, which can cause damage.
When you're done make sure you scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. When it's smooth then you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to safeguard it from water and future damage.
There are a few simple solutions you can try for a window that is cracked by a double-pane however, these methods are not a solution to the crack and should only be used as a temporary fix. The use of a silicone caulk may help seal the gap, but you need to make sure that you choose a high-quality caulk and follow proper application methods.
Condensation
If you've noticed moisture 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 problem because it stops the gas or air that is used to insulate from being trapped between the two glass panes, so it won't do its job properly and this can lead to temperature changes that result in condensation forming.
Fortunately, the issue can be fixed by an expert in double glazing. Your window contractor will remove the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then, a new gasket will be blown into to create an airtight seal and prevent condensation from occurring again. They will also employ a drying agent to aid in drying the area out and stop the condensation from recurring.
The other reason why you might notice a misty appearance between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the frame has moved over time, which breaks the all-important seal. This can be a huge problem, as windows that are not functioning effectively and lose energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Window but this can be quite expensive and is normally only necessary in the event of serious problems with the window that is beyond repair. However, if you've spotted a fault in your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period, then it may be possible to have the issue fixed for free or at least at a lower cost.
Verify the warranty conditions prior to calling the company to find out whether they can fix the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You might find that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows and will usually be able to do so quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better on the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
It can be a big problem if your window handle is broken, or if it is difficult to open. You won't be able to open your windows. It could also give burglars the chance to break into your house. There are many options to address this issue however the most effective option is to connect with a uPVC professional. They can repair the problem for you, or at least provide you with a replacement handle.
There are many different types of window locks, but the most well-known is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks utilize bayonet-style rods to lock and these are able to easily seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it won't return to the wedged locked position. This can be a gruelling problem, but can be fixed with a few easy steps.
To fix the issue you'll have to remove the handle. This can be done easily enough using the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to view the screws that hold the lock to frame. After the screws have been removed you can then use a wrench or pliers to try to grasp the bolts that hold the shoot. If this fails, you may need to insert the tool through the gap between the window and frame (the gap may differ on the opposite side of the window) and create an "u" shape with your hands to try to grab the shoot bolts.
If you manage to remove the bolts that shoot, then you can close your window by adjusting the handle to the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is likely to be damaged and won't open by the handle. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts which means that the window can be opened by the handle (and will still be secure) However, you'll have to purchase a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't functioning properly it is possible to have them repaired or replaced. It could be because the window was opened too vigorously, or that the hinge snapped. Or, repair double glazing may have a flaw. Thankfully the replacement of the hinge is simple and quick and doesn't require you to purchase windows that are new instead, you can get your old ones fixed instead.
The first step is to remove the existing hinges. To do this, unscrew the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. After the hinges are removed then you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the right size. The plywood should be thicker than the hinges that came with it to help support the weight of the window when it is closed and opened. Use wood filler to make sure the hole left behind by the old hinge does not leak or break.
Once you've replaced hinges and filled the holes, you'll need to paint them. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as it can. When the paint is dry, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can help them last longer by regularly cleaning the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use a wood preservative to protect them from the elements, which can help to prevent corrosion and keep them looking good for as long as possible.
Having a double glazed window can help you reduce your heating bills, since it's more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. As with any part of your house windows, they will eventually require to be replaced or repaired. If you're experiencing any indications that your double-glazed windows aren't functioning properly, it's worth getting them examined by our experts in Preston.