10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden They'll Help You Understand Repair Double Glazed Windows
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few telltale signs that your double glazed windows require repair. Water ingress and draughts are clear indications of damage to the frames of the windows. They should be repaired as quickly as possible.
Misting can also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals will solve the issue, and stop draughts, leaks or condensation.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most frequent problems that double-glazed windows have to face. Double pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane ones However, accidents do occur and you'll want to repair a broken window as soon as is possible.
Remove any loose glass fragments that might be in the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection while doing this, since glass can be sharp. Examine the floor for fragments that are not fixed after the shards are gone. It's also recommended to remove any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.
Once the glass is removed, you'll have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners which pin the glass into the window frame) and replace them with new ones. It is a long-winded process and you will need some tools to accomplish the task. These include latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points, pliers, a heat gun; and a putty knife.
It's best to begin at the top and work your way down when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will prevent any wood or paint that is removed from the sash from adhering to your tool. If you need to remove some of the wood from the sash employ the utility knife or chisel instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage.
After that, sand the bare wood. Once the wood is smooth then you can seal it using linseed or clear wood sealer. This will help protect it from water and further damage.
You can use a few simple fixes to fix cracked double pane windows. But these fixes are not a solution to repair the damage and should only serve as an interim solution. The use of a silicone caulk may help seal the gap, but it's important to ensure that you choose a high-quality caulk that is applied using the proper methods.
Condensation
If you've noticed water or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it's a sign that one of your windows has a failed seal. This can be a serious problem as it prevents the insulating gas or air from getting trapped between the two panes.
Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by a double glazing expert. To fix the problem your window company will take off the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket. This will create a strong and airtight seal that will stop condensation from happening again. They will also employ drying agents to help the area dry out and prevent the condensation from recurring.
Another reason you may see a haze between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the framework has shifted over time, which causes cracks in the seal that is so crucial. This could be a major problem, as your windows won't function properly and lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to change a double-glazed window's panes, however, this can be costly and is usually only required when the window is beyond repair. If you're experiencing problems with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period then you may be able to get it repaired at no cost or for a reduced price.
It is worth checking the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they are able to resolve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically come with an assurance of 10 to 20 years. You may find that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If double glazing windows repairs is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist to fix your double glazed windows and are usually capable of doing it quickly. This is a much 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
It could be a major issue if your window handle is damaged or broken, or if it is difficult to open. You will not be able to use your windows. It also gives burglars the chance to gain entry into your home. There are a variety of solutions to address the issue but the best option is to contact an uPVC expert. Depending on the severity of the issue they are able to usually come and repair it for you, or at the very least, provide you with a replacement handle.
There are many different types of window locks, however the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock, which can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. They lock using bayonet-style rods, which can easily become jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position, and it won't return to its wedged locked position. This can be a frustrating issue, but it is able to be resolved by following a few easy steps.
To resolve the issue, you'll need to remove the handle. This is simple enough using the help of a screwdriver. After you have removed the handle, you will be able see the screws that hold the lock to frame. Once the screws are removed, you may try to grab the bolts with an awl or a pair of pliers. If this is unsuccessful it is possible to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and window (the gap may differ on the opposite side of the window) and then make an "u" shape with your hand to try and grasp the bolts.
If you are able to free up the bolts for shooting, you can shut your window by moving the handle to the closed position. The gearbox (espag, espagnolette, etc.) is most likely damaged and won't open with the handle. You can refit the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts so that the window can still be opened with the handle.
Broken Hinges
You may need to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they're not operating smoothly. If this is because of them being opened with too much force the hinge dropping and snapping or if they were defective to begin with the issue could cause issues that make using your window difficult. Fortunately, replacing the hinge is easy and quick, so there's no need to buy a new window instead, you can get the old ones repaired instead.
First, you'll need to remove the existing hinges. This is done by unscrewing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. After you've removed the hinges you can replace them with plywood boards that are cut to the correct dimensions. Make sure the plywood is thicker than the original board to ensure it can support the weight of the window when it is closed and open. Use wood filler to make sure the hole left behind by the hinge of the past will not leak or become loose.
After you've replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll need paint them. Use a good paint to ensure it lasts as long as it can. Once the paint has dried, you can reattach the window. Secure 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 in order to shield them against the elements. This will prevent rusting and keep them looking good for as long as you can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows, and can help you save money on heating. However, just like every other part of your home, windows can suffer from wear and tear and might need repairing or replacing over time. Our Preston experts can help you if you notice any signs that the double-glazed windows you have aren't working correctly.