How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few telltale signs that your double glazed windows require repairs. Evidently, water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are an obvious sign of damage to the window 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 window seals will solve the problem, and stop draughts, leaks, or condensation.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed windows face. Double-pane windows are harder to break than single panes, but accidents do occur. It is important to repair a damaged glass as quickly as you can.
Get rid of any glass fragments that may still be in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when removing the glass, as it can be very sharp. Once the shards are removed, check the floor of your home for any extra pieces of glass that may be left. It is also recommended to look for any hooks of metal that may be keeping the panes in place and remove them as well.
Once the glass is removed then you can begin the process of removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass to the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. It's a lengthy procedure that requires a few tools. You'll need latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers, an electric heat gun, 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 getting any of the paint or sash's wood stuck to your tool. If you have to remove a portion of the wood from the sash, employ a utility knife or a chipper instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage.
After you've finished make sure you scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. Once the wood is smooth then you can seal it using clear or linseed wood sealer. This will help protect it against 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 solutions are not a solution to the crack and should be used only as a temporary fix. The use of silicone caulk can help to seal the gap. However it is crucial to use high-quality caulk with proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows is suffering from a failing seal. This could be a major problem as it prevents the gas or air that is used to insulate getting trapped between the two panes.
A double glazing expert can fix this issue easily. The window company will take out both the window sash and window as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to correct the issue. Then the gasket is blown in to form an airtight seal and prevent condensation from happening again. They will also employ a drying agent to aid in drying the area out and prevent the condensation from happening again.
You may also notice the glass panes are a little cloudy in double-glazed windows when the frame has changed position over time. source for this article could break the seal. This could be a major issue as your windows won't function correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to change a double-glazed window's panes, but this can be expensive and is typically only needed when the window is beyond repair. If you've noticed a fault in your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty time, then it may 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 are typically covered by warranties ranging from 10 and 20 years, so you may find that they can repair the faulty window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the case you're in, they'll send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows. They're able to complete the task quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
If the handle on your window is damaged or difficult to open, it could be a major issue since it hinders you from using your windows. This could also give burglars an opportunity to break into your home. There are a variety of solutions to address the issue however the most effective method is to contact a uPVC expert. Based on the severity of the problem they are able to usually fix it for you or at a minimum, give you a new handle.
There are a few different kinds of window locks however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks which are typically found on uPVC frames. These locks lock with bayonet-style rods, which can easily be jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it won't return to the wedged lock position. This can be a difficult problem, but it can be fixed with a few simple steps.
To resolve the issue, you will need to first remove the handle. This should be easy enough with the aid of a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you'll be aware of the screws holding the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed and the handle is removed, you can make use of pliers or a wrench to try to grab the bolts for the shoot. If this doesn't work, you can insert the tool between the frame and the window (the gap could be different at each end of the windows) and make an "u" shape with your hand to grab the bolts.
You can shut your window by moving the handle to the closed position if you are in a position to release the shoot bolts. The gearbox (espag, espagnolette, etc.) is probably faulty, so it will not open with the handle. You can replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts so that the window can be opened by the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are no functioning properly, you may need to repair or replace them. It could be that the window was opened too vigorously, or that the hinge snapped. They could also have a defect. Fortunately it is easy and quick and there's no need to purchase windows that are new - you can simply get your old ones fixed instead.
The first step is to remove the hinges currently installed. This is accomplished by removing the screws that hold the hinges to the frame. After you've removed the hinges, you can replace them with plywood boards that are cut to the right dimensions. Make sure that the plywood is thicker than the original board so that it can withstand the weight of the window when shut and open. You'll also need to use wood filler to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is filled to the brim and will not leak or break in the future.
After you've replaced hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as is possible. Once the paint is dry, you can reconnect the window. Tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Regularly cleaning the friction stay track and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also use a wood preservative to protect them from the elements, which will help to stop rust and keep them looking good for as long as you can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows and will save you money on heating. But, just like any other aspect of your home, your windows can suffer from wear and tear and could need repairing or replacing as time passes. Our Preston experts are able to assist you if you observe any indications that the double-glazed windows you have aren't working properly.