How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are certain indicators that tell you your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Evidently, water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are a clear sign of damage to the window and must be fixed as soon as possible.
However, misting could be an indication that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the window seals will solve the problem, and stop draughts, leaks, or condensation.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems that a double-glazed window faces is broken glass. Although double-pane windows are less likely to break than single pane windows however, accidents can occur and you'll need to fix a broken window as quickly as possible.
Get rid of any glass fragments that could remain in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when you remove the glass because it is extremely sharp. Examine the floor for fragments that are not fixed after the shards are gone. It is also recommended to remove any hooks that hold the panes together.
After the glass is removed then you can begin the process of removing the old glass compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass in the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure, and you'll need some tools to get the job done. These include latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points, pliers, a heat gun; and a putty knife.
It is best to begin at the top and work your way down in removing the old points and glazing compound. This will help you avoid getting any of the paint or sash's wood stuck to your 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 you can sand the wood. Once it's smooth then you can apply Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to safeguard it from water and further damage.
There are a few quick solutions you can try to repair a damaged double-pane window, but these methods will not repair the crack and should only be used as a temporary solution. The use of silicone caulk can help seal the gap. However it is crucial to use a high-quality caulk and proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing it means that your window seal isn't working. This could be a problem because it blocks the gas or air that is used to insulate from getting trapped between the two panes of glass, so it won't do its job properly and this can lead to temperature changes which can cause condensation to form.
A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. To resolve the issue, your window contractor will remove the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing into a new gasket to create a strong and airtight seal to stop condensation from happening again. They will also employ drying agents to help the area dry out and prevent the condensation from happening again.
You might also notice a the glass panes are a little cloudy in double-glazed windows, in the event that the frame has changed over time. This could cause the seal to break. This can be a major issue since it means that your windows won't work correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Windows but this can be quite expensive and is normally only needed when there are serious problems with the window that are beyond repair. If you've noticed the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty time it could be possible to get the issue fixed for free or at least at a lower cost.
It is worth checking the terms of your warranty before you call the company to find out whether they are able to resolve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. It is possible that the company can repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they will likely send out a specialist to repair your double-glazed windows. They can usually complete the task quickly. This is a less expensive option than buying and installing brand new double-glazed windows, and it's more sustainable for the environment as well!
Broken Locks & Handles
It can be a huge issue if your window handle is damaged or broken, or if it is difficult to open. You won't be able use your windows. It also gives burglars the chance to break into your home. There are a number of ways to fix this but the most effective solution is to speak with a uPVC professional. They can repair the problem for you, or give you a replacement handle.
There are several types of window lock, however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks which are typically found on uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock, and they can easily seize up. If this occurs, the handle's nase will remain in the popped out position, and won't be able to return to the locked position wedged. This can be a gruelling problem, but it can be resolved with a few easy steps.
To resolve the issue, you will need to first take off the handle, which should be done with a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to view the screws that secure the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts with a wrench or pair of pliers. If this fails, you can insert the tool between the frame and the window (the gap may be different at the ends of the windows) and make an "u" shape with your fingers to grasp the bolts.
You can shut your window by moving the handle to a closed position if you're in a position to release the shoot bolts. But it won't be able to open again by the handle, since the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is most likely to be defective. You can replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts in order that the window will still be opened using the handle.
Broken Hinges
You may need to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't operating smoothly. If this is because of them being opened by too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or if they were defective in the first place, it can cause problems that make using your window difficult. Fortunately, replacing double glazing windows repairs is quick and easy, so there's no need to buy a new window and you can have your old windows repaired instead.
Take off the hinges. To do this, loosen the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. After you've removed your hinges, you can replace them with plywood boards cut to the correct size. The plywood should be thicker than the original one to be able to withstand the weight when the window is closed and opened. You'll also want to use wood filler to ensure that the hole created by the hinge is filled to the brim and will not leak or loosen in the future.
After you've filled holes and replaced the hinges, you will need to paint the doors. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as it can. Once the paint is dry and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also important for window hinges. Cleaning regularly the friction stay track and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also apply a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, helping to stop corrosion and maintain their appearance for as long as possible.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed ones, and can help you save money on heating. However, just like every other component of your home, your windows are susceptible to wear and tear and may require replacement or repair as time passes. Our Preston experts can help you if you observe any signs that your double-glazed windows are not working properly.