How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows must be repaired. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indications of damage to the frames of the windows. They should be repaired as soon as is possible.
Misting may also indicate that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will solve the issue and will stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Double-pane windows are less difficult to break than single panes, but accidents can still happen. You will want to repair a damaged glass as quickly as possible.
Remove any loose glass fragments that could be inside the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when you remove the glass because it is extremely sharp. Once the shards have been removed, check the floor of your home for any additional loose pieces. It's also recommended to remove any hooks that hold the panes together.
After the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass into the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long-winded process and you will need a few tools to get the job done. These include latex glazing putty; metal glazing points, pliers, a heat gun and a putty knife.
When you are removing the old glazing compound and points, it's a good idea to start at the top of the sash, and work your way down. This will help you avoid getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to the tool. Also, if you do end up removing a portion of the sash's wood ensure that you employ a chisel, or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper since this could cause damage.
After you've finished ensure that you scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. Once the wood is smooth, you can seal it using clear or linseed wood sealer. This will help protect it from future water damage.
There are a few quick solutions you can try for a cracked double-pane window however, these methods won't fix the crack and should be used only as a temporary solution. 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've noticed any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of your windows has a failed seal. This could be a significant issue since it prevents gas or air that is used to insulate getting trapped between the two panes.
Fortunately, the issue can be easily repaired by a double glazing expert. To resolve the issue, your window contractor will take off the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting into a new gasket to create a sturdy and airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They will also use drying agents to help the area dry out and stop the condensation from happening again.
The other reason why you may see a haze between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the frame has moved over time, which breaks the seal that is so crucial. This can be a huge problem, as your windows won't function effectively and lose energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Windows however, it can be extremely expensive and is normally only required if there are severe problems with the window that is beyond repair. If you have a problem with your double-glazed window and are still in the warranty period, you might be able repair it at no cost or at an affordable cost.
Check your warranty terms before making contact with the company to determine whether they can solve the problem without replacing the whole window. Double glazed windows are typically covered by warranties ranging from 10 and 20 years, so you might find they are able to repair defective window units instead of replacing them completely. If this is the situation they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows. They can usually complete the task quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to buying and installing brand new double glazed windows, and it's better for the environment!
repairing double glazing windows & Handles
If the handle on your window is damaged or difficult to open, it could be a huge issue as it hinders you from using your windows. It can also give burglars a chance to break into your home. There are several solutions to address the issue but the best option is to call an uPVC expert. They will be able to fix the issue for you, or at least provide you with a replacement handle.
There are a number of different kinds of window locks. However, the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks are secured with bayonet-style rods, which can easily be jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position, and it won't return to the wedged locked position. This could be a frustrating issue, but it can be fixed with just a few steps.
To resolve the issue to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle, which should be done with a screwdriver. After you have removed the handle, you'll be able to view the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts with a wrench or pair of pliers. If this fails then you might need to insert the tool through the gap between the window and frame (the gap can be different on each end of the window) and create an "u" shape with your hand to try and grasp the bolts.
If you are able to free up the shoot bolts, then you can close your window by adjusting the handle into the closed position. But it won't be able to 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 without the shoot bolts, which means that the window can be opened using the handle (and is still secure), but you will need to order an entirely new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
You may need to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't functioning smoothly. It could be because the window was opened too forcefully, or that the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a problem. It's easy to fix the hinge, so you don't have to buy new windows.
First, you'll need remove the hinges currently installed. This is accomplished by removing the screws that hold the hinges to the frame. After the hinges have been removed 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 when the window is closed and opened. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left behind by the hinge of the past will not leak or loosen.
Once you've replaced hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Use a quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as possible. When the paint is dry, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. You can make them last longer by regularly cleaning the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply wood preservatives to protect them against the elements. This will help prevent corrosion and keep them looking great for as long as you possibly can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows and can save you money on heating. Like every other component of your house windows, they will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. Our Preston experts can assist you if you notice any signs that your double-glazed windows are not working correctly.