How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are certain indicators that tell you your double-glazed windows must be repaired. Water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are an obvious indication of damage to your windows and should be fixed in the shortest time possible.
The misting could also mean that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the issue and will stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. While double pane windows are much harder to break than single-pane windows, accidents do occur and you'll need to repair a broken window as soon as you can.
The first step is to get rid of any glass fragments that are loose that are still in the frame. Make sure to wear eye protection and gloves when doing this, as glass can be very sharp. After the shards have been removed, look around the floor of your home for extra pieces of glass that may be left. It is also recommended to look for any metal hooks that might be holding the panes together and take them out too.
Once the glass has been removed, you will have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners which pin the glass in the window frame), and replace them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure and requires several tools to complete the task. These include latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers; a heat gun; and a putty knife.
When removing the old glazing 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 stop any wood or paint that is removed from the sash from sticking to your tool. If you need to remove a portion of the wood from the sash use an utility knife or chisel instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage.
When you're done you can sand the wood. Once it's smooth you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to protect it from future water damage.
You can make a few simple solutions to repair cracks in a double-pane window. However, double glazed repair will not repair the damage and should only be used as a temporary solution. Using a silicone caulk can help to seal the gap, but it is important to ensure that you use a high-quality caulk and follow proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between the panes of glass that you have double glazing, this means that your window seal has failed. This can be a serious issue as it stops the insulating gas or air from being trapped between two panes.
A double glazing specialist can fix this issue easily. Your window contractor will remove both the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then, a new gasket is blown in to form an airtight seal, preventing condensation from occurring in the future. They will also employ drying agents to help the area dry out and stop the condensation from occurring again.
You might also notice a the glass panes are a little cloudy in double-glazed windows, in the event that the frame has changed over time. This will break the seal. This can be a huge issue, since your windows won't function properly and lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to replace double-glazed window's glass, however, it can be costly and is usually only necessary in the event that the window is beyond repair. If you have a problem with your double-glazed window but are still within the warranty period then you might be able repair it at no cost or at lower cost.
It's a good idea to check the conditions of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they can solve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You may find that the company can repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows and will usually be able to do so 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 can be a huge issue as it prevents you from using your windows. It can also give burglars the chance to break into your home. There are a few solutions to address the issue but the best option is to call an uPVC expert. They can repair the problem for you, or at the very least give you a replacement handle.
There are many types of window lock, however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. They lock using rods that resemble bayonets, which could easily jam. 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 problem, but can be solved with just a few steps.
To fix the problem to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle. This is easy enough using the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle you'll be able to view the screws that secure the lock to frame. Once the screws have been removed you can then use a wrench or pliers to try and grab the bolts for the shoot. If this doesn't work then you can put the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap may be different between the two windows) and make an "u" shape using your hands to grasp the bolts.
If you can manage to free up the bolts that shoot, then you can close your window by adjusting the handle into the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is likely to be damaged, so it will not open when you pull the handle. You can replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts in order that the window will still be opened by the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't longer operating smoothly it is possible to replace or repair them. Whether this is due to them having been opened with too much force, the hinge dropping and snapping or if they were defective in the first place and it causes problems that make using your window difficult. Luckily the replacement of the hinge is easy and quick and there's no need to purchase windows from scratch and you can have your old windows repaired instead.
First, you'll need to take off the hinges that are currently in place. This is done by unscrewing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. After the hinges are removed you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the correct size. Make sure that the plywood you choose to use is more robust than the original board to ensure it can support the weight of the window when shut and open. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left behind by the hinges of the past will not leak or break.
After you've re-installed the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll need paint them. Use a quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as is possible. Once the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, which can help to keep them from rust and maintain their appearance for as long as is possible.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows, and will save you money on heating. However, just like every other part of your home, your windows will show wear and tear and could need repairing or replacing as time passes. If you're experiencing any of the signs that your double glazed windows are struggling to operate, it's worth getting them examined by our experts in Preston.