How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are some telltale signs your double-glazed windows require to be fixed. Evidently, water ingress or draughts through the frames are a clear indication of damage to your windows and will need to be fixed in the shortest time possible.
Misting can also indicate that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals can solve the issue, and prevent leaks, draughts, or condensation.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed windows have to face. Double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single panes, however accidents do happen. You should repair a damaged glass as quickly as you can.
The first step is to get rid of any glass shards that are not completely removed that remain in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection while removing the glass because it could be extremely sharp. Once the shards are removed, look around the floor of your home for other pieces that are loose. It is also a good idea to look for any hooks made of metal that might be holding the panes in place and remove them also.
Once the glass is removed then you can begin the process of removing the old compound and glazing points (small fasteners that pin the glass to the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure and requires several tools to complete the task. You will require latex glazing putty and metal glazing points, pliers heat gun and a putty blade.
When 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 keep any wood or paint from the sash from sticking to your tool. Also, if you do end up removing a portion of the sash's wooden pieces, make sure you employ a chisel, or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, since this could cause damage.
After you've finished, be sure to scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. Once the wood is smooth then you can seal it with clear or linseed wood sealer. This will shield it from water and further damage.
There are a few quick 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 only be used as a temporary fix. Utilizing silicone caulk will help to seal the gap. However it is crucial to use a high-quality caulk and the correct application methods.
Condensation
If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between your double glazing glass panes, this means that your window seal has failed. This could be a major issue since it prevents gas or air that acts as an insulation from getting trapped between the two panes.
Fortunately, this can be fixed by an expert in double glazing. 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. This will create a sturdy and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from occurring again. They will also apply a drying agent to help the area dry out and stop the condensation from occurring again.
You might also notice a fog between glass panes in double-glazed windows when the frame has changed over time. This can crack the seal. This can be a major issue because it means your windows won't function properly and will lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to replace a double-glazed window's panes however, it can be costly and is usually only necessary if the window is beyond repair. If you're experiencing problems with your double-glazed windows and are still in the warranty period, you may be able to get it repaired at no cost or for an affordable cost.
Review your warranty's terms prior to making contact with the company to determine whether they can solve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double glazed windows are typically covered by warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years, which means you might find that they are able to repair defective window units instead of replacing them completely. If this is the situation, they will likely send out a specialist to repair your double-glazed windows. They're able to accomplish this in a short time. This is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new double-glazed windows and it's also more sustainable for the environment as well!
Broken Locks & Handles
When your window handle is broken or hard to open, it can 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 number of ways to fix this, but the best option is to get in touch with an uPVC professional. Based on the severity of the issue, they can usually come and repair it for you or at the very least, provide you with a new handle.
There are many different types of window locks, however the most well-known is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock, and they can easily seize up. If this occurs, the handle's nase is stuck in the out position and won't be able to return to the locked position wedged. This can be a very frustrating issue, but it can be fixed by following a few steps.
To fix the issue you'll need to take off the handle. This should be simple enough with the help of a screwdriver. After you have removed the handle, you will be able see the screws that secure the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed, you can attempt to grab the bolts with the help of a wrench or a pair pliers. If this fails then you can place the tool into the gap 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.
If you are able to free up the bolts that shoot, then you can close your window by moving the handle to the closed position. But double glazing repairers won't be able to be able to open again using the handle, since the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to refit the gearbox without the shoot bolts so the window can be opened by the handle (and is still secure) however, you'll have to purchase the new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
It could be necessary to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they're not operating smoothly. If this is because of the hinges being opened with too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or they were defective to begin with the issue could cause issues that make using your window difficult. It's simple to fix the hinge, which means you don't have to buy new windows.
Remove the hinges. This is done by removing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. Once the hinges have been removed, you can replace the boards using 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 that the hole left behind by the hinge of the past will not leak or loosen.
After you've re-installed the hinges and filled the holes, you'll have to paint them. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to make sure it lasts as long as is possible. When the paint is dry and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. Cleaning the track of friction and lubricating hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also apply a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, which will help to prevent rust and keep them looking good for as long as is possible.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed ones, and can help you save money on heating. As with any part of your house, your windows will eventually require to be replaced or repaired. If you're seeing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate and aren't working properly, you should have them checked by our experts in Preston.