10 Tips For Quickly Getting Repair Double Glazed Windows
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few telltale indicators that indicate that your double-glazed windows require repairs. Water ingress and draughts are clear indicators of damage to frames of the windows. They must be fixed as quickly as possible.
However, misting can also be repair double glazing windows that your window seals are in need of replacing. Replacing the seals will solve the issue and will stop condensation, draughts, or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems that a double-glazed window faces is broken glass. Double pane windows are less likely to break than single pane windows however, accidents can occur and you'll want to repair a broken window as soon as you can.
Get rid of any glass fragments that may still be inside the frame. Be sure to wear eye protection and gloves while doing this, since glass can be extremely sharp. Check the floor for any fragments that are not fixed after the shards have been removed. Also, it is a good idea to look for any metal hooks that could be holding the panes together and take them out as well.
After the glass has been removed, you will have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass into the window frame) and replace them with new ones. It's a lengthy process that requires the use of a few tools. 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 recommended to begin at the top of the sash and begin to work your way down. This will prevent any paint or wood that is left in the sash from sticking to your tool. If you need to take off some of the wood from the sash, use a utility knife or a chipper instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage.
When you're done make sure you scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. When it's smooth you can apply Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to safeguard it from water and future damage.
You can make a few simple solutions to repair a cracked double pane window. However, these methods are not a solution to repair the damage and should only serve as a temporary solution. The use of a silicone caulk may aid in sealing the gap, but it is important to ensure that you use a top-quality caulk that is applied using the proper methods.
Condensation
If you notice any moisture or mist between your double glazing glass panes it means that your window seal has failed. This could be a cause for concern because it stops the gas or air that is used to insulate from being trapped between the two glass panes, so it won't do its job properly and this can cause temperature fluctuations that cause condensation to form.
A double glazing expert can fix this issue easily. Your window repair professional will take off both the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to correct the issue. Then a new gasket will be blown into to create an airtight seal to prevent condensation from occurring again. They will also employ drying agents to aid in drying the area out and prevent the condensation from occurring again.
You may also notice mist between glass panes in double-glazed windows if the frame has changed over time. This can break the seal. This could be a major issue as windows that are not functioning properly and lose their energy efficiency.
While it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed Window however, it can be extremely expensive and is normally only needed if there are severe issues with a window that is beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed window but are still in the warranty period, you might be able repair it at no cost or at lower cost.
It's worth checking the conditions of your warranty prior to you contact the company to determine whether they can solve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically come with a guarantee of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company is able to 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 less expensive option than buying and installing brand new double-glazed windows, and it's better for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
When your window handle is broken or hard to open, it can be a huge issue as it prevents you from using your windows. It can also give burglars an opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are a few solutions to address the issue, but the best way is to call a uPVC expert. Based on the severity of the problem they are able to usually fix it for you or at least provide you with a new handle.
There are many different types of window locks, however the most common is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock, and they are very easy to seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it is unable to return to the wedged lock position. This can be a very frustrating issue, but it can be fixed by following a few easy steps.
To fix the issue you must first remove the handle, which should be done with the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you will be aware of the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed you can then make use of pliers or a wrench to try to grab the bolts for the shoot. If this fails, you can insert the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap could be different at the ends of the windows) and create an "u" shape using your fingers to grasp the bolts.
If you manage to remove the shoot bolts, then you can shut your window by moving the handle into the closed position. But it won't be able to open again with the handle because the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts in order that the window can be opened by the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are no longer operating smoothly, you may need to replace or repair them. If this is because of them being opened with too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or they had a fault in the first place and it causes problems that make using your window difficult. Fortunately the replacement of the hinge is quick and easy and doesn't require you to purchase a new window - you can simply get your old windows repaired instead.
Take off the hinges. This is done by removing 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 right dimensions. Make sure the plywood is more robust than the original board so that it can withstand the weight of the window when open and closed. You'll also need to use wood filler to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is filled to the brim and will not leak or loosen in the near future.
Once you've replaced the hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Use a good paint to ensure it lasts as long as possible. After the paint has dried and you are able to attach the window again. Tighten any screws that are loose.
Regular maintenance is essential for hinges on windows. You can help them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply a wood preservative to protect them from the elements, which will help to stop rust and keep them looking great for as long as you can.
Having a double glazed window can help you save money on heating, because it is more energy efficient than a single-glazed window. However, just like every other part of your home, your windows will show wear and tear and might require repair or replacement in time. If you're noticing any indications that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate it's worth having them checked by our experts in Preston.