How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few distinct signs that your double glazed windows require repair. Water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are an obvious indication of damage to your windows and must be fixed in the shortest time possible.
The misting could also mean that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the problem and prevent condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. repairing double glazing windows are much harder to break than single-pane ones however, accidents can occur and you'll want to fix a broken window as quickly as possible.
The first step to take is to get rid of any glass fragments that are loose that are still in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when removing the glass, because it could be extremely sharp. Examine the floor for loose pieces once the shards have been removed. Also, it's an excellent idea to look for any hooks made of metal that might be holding the panes in place and pull these out too.
Once the glass is removed, you will have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass in the frame of the window), and replace them with new ones. It's a lengthy procedure that requires some tools. These include latex glazing putty; metal glazing points; pliers; a heat gun; and a putty knife.
It's best to begin at the top and work your way downwards 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 need to take off some of the wood from the sash, make use of a utility knife or a chipper instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage.
After you're done then 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.
There are a few easy fixes you can attempt to repair a damaged double-pane window however, these methods will not repair the crack and should only be used as a temporary fix. Utilizing silicone caulk will help to seal the gap. However it is essential to use high-quality caulk with proper application methods.
Condensation
If you notice moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, this means that the window seal isn't working. This can be a serious problem as it prevents the gas or air that acts as an insulation from being trapped between two panes.
A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. To correct the issue the window repair professional will take out the affected window sash as well as the IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing in a new gasket. This will create a sturdy and airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They will also apply a drying agent to aid in drying the area out and stop the condensation from happening again.
Another reason you may notice mist between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the framework has shifted over time, which can break the seal that is so crucial. This can be a problem as it means that your windows will not function correctly and will lose their energy efficiency.
While it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Windows, this can be very expensive and is typically only necessary in the event of serious problems with the window that are beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed window and are still in the warranty period, you might be able to repair it at no cost or for lower cost.
It's worth checking the terms of your warranty before you contact the company to see whether they are able to solve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company is able to repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist out to fix your double glazed windows and are usually in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a less expensive alternative than purchasing and installing brand new double glazed windows and is also more sustainable for the environment as well!
Broken Locks & Handles
When your window handle is broken or hard to open, it could be a huge issue as it prevents you from using your windows. It also gives burglars a chance to gain entry into your home. There are a number of options to address this issue, but the best option is to connect with an uPVC professional. They will be able to fix the issue for you, or at least provide you with a replacement handle.
There are many types of window lock, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks that are found on most uPVC frames. These locks use bayonet style rods to lock, and they are very easy to seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position, and it is unable to return to its wedged locked position. This can be a frustrating issue, but it is able to be resolved with a few simple steps.
To resolve the issue, you'll need to remove the handle. This can be done easily enough using a screwdriver. After removing the handle you'll be able to see the screws that attach the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed and the handle is removed, you can use a wrench or pliers to try and grab the bolts for the shoot. If this fails then you might need to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and window (the gap can be different on each end of the window) and make an "u" shape with your hands to try to grasp the bolts.
You can close your window by moving the handle to a closed position if in a position to release the shoot bolts. 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 thus the window will be opened by the handle (and will still be secure) however, you'll need to order the new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't longer operating smoothly and smoothly, you might need to have them repaired or replaced. Whether this is due to them being opened with too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or they had a fault at the beginning and it causes problems that make using your window difficult. Fortunately, replacing the hinge is easy and quick and there's no need to buy windows that are new - you can simply get your old ones fixed instead.
Take off the hinges. This is done by unscrewing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. 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 original one to be able to withstand the weight of the window when it is closed and opened. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left behind by the hinge of the past does not leak or break.
After you've filled in the holes and put on hinges, you'll need to paint the doors. Be sure to use a high-quality paint to ensure that it will last for as long as is possible. After the paint has dried, you can reattach the window. Tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives to shield them from the elements, which can help to keep them from rust and keep them looking good for as long as possible.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows and will save you money on heating. Like any other part of your house windows will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. If you're experiencing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate it's worth having them examined by our experts in Preston.