How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows need to be fixed. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indications of damage to the frames of the windows. They must be fixed as quickly as possible.
The misting could also mean that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will solve the problem and prevent condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Double-pane windows are less difficult to break than single panes, however accidents do happen. You will want to repair the damaged glass as quickly as possible.
The first step to take is to take out any loose shards of glass that are still in the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection while doing this, since glass can be very sharp. Once the shards have been removed, look around the floor of your home for additional loose pieces. It is also a good idea to search for any metal hooks that could be holding the panes in place and remove them as well.
After the glass has been removed, 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. This is a time-consuming procedure and requires some tools to get the job done. This includes latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers; heat gun and a putty knife.
When removing the old glaze compound and points it is a good idea to start at the top of the sash, and begin to work your way down. This will help you avoid getting any of the paint or sash's wood stuck to your tool. Also, if you do end up removing a portion of the sash's wood, be sure to employ a chisel, or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, as this can cause damage.
When you're done make sure you remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. Once it is smooth then you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to protect it from future water damage.
You can make some quick fixes to fix a cracked double pane window. However, these methods won't fix the problem and should only be used as an interim solution. Utilizing silicone caulk will help to seal the gap. However it is crucial to use a high-quality caulk and the correct application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows has a failed seal. This can be a problem because it prevents the insulating air or gas from getting trapped between the two panes of glass, so it won't do its job effectively and will lead to temperature changes that result in condensation forming.
Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by a double glazing expert. To fix the problem the window repair professional will remove the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket to create a sturdy and airtight seal that will stop condensation from happening again. They'll also employ a drying agent to aid in drying the area and stop the condensation from recurring.
The other reason why you might notice a misty appearance between the glass panes of windows with double glazing is because the framework has shifted over time, which causes cracks in the crucial seal. This could be a major issue as your windows will not 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 necessary if there are severe problems with the window that are beyond repair. However, if you've discovered a fault in your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty time and the window is still in good condition, it might be possible to have repaired for free or at least at a lesser cost.
Review your warranty's terms prior to contacting the company to determine whether they can fix the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You might find that the company can repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the situation, they will likely send a specialist out to fix your double-glazed windows. They can usually complete the task quickly. This is a much less expensive alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
It can be a huge problem if your window handle is broken, or if it is difficult to open. You won't be able use your windows. This can also give burglars the opportunity 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. repairing double glazing windows will be able to fix the issue for you, or at the very least provide you with a replacement handle.
There are several kinds of window locks however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. These locks are secured with rods that resemble bayonets, which could easily become jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it will not return to the wedged lock position. This can be a very difficult issue, but it can be resolved with a few simple steps.
To fix the issue you'll need to remove the handle. This can be done easily enough using the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you'll be aware of the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed, you can attempt to grab the bolts using an awl or a pair of pliers. If this doesn't work it is possible to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and the window (the gap could be different on each end of the window) and make a "u" shape using your hands to try and grab the shoot bolts.
If you manage to free up the bolts for shooting, you can shut your window by moving the handle to the closed position. But, it will not be able to open again using the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is most likely to be defective. It is possible to replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts, so that the window can be opened using the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't working properly and smoothly, you might need to replace or repair them. Whether this is due to them having been opened with too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or they had a fault in the first place the issue could cause issues that make using your window difficult. It's simple to repair the hinge so you don't need to buy new windows.
The first step is to take off the hinges that are currently in place. To do this, loosen the screws that attach the frame to the hinges. Once the hinges have been removed, you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the correct size. The plywood should be thicker than the original to support the weight of the window when it is shut and opened. You'll also want to use a wood filler to ensure that the hole left by the old hinge is completely filled and won't leak or become loose in the future.
After you've filled holes and replaced the hinges, then you'll need to paint the doors. Use a quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as it can. Once the paint has dried, you can reconnect the window. Make sure you tighten any screws that are loose.
Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. Cleaning the friction stay track and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also use wood preservatives to protect them from the elements. This will help prevent rusting and keep them looking great for as long as you can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed ones, and can help you save money on heating. Like every other component of your home windows, they will eventually require to be replaced or repaired. If you're seeing any of the signs that your double glazed windows aren't working properly, it's worth getting them looked at by our experts in Preston.