Are Repair Double Glazed Windows The Best There Ever Was?
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are certain indicators that tell you your double-glazed windows require to be fixed. Water ingress or draughts through the frames are a clear indication of damage to your windows and must be fixed as soon as possible.
Misting may also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals can fix the issue and stop condensation, draughts, or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems that a double-glazed window faces is broken glass. Double-pane windows are harder to break than single panes, however accidents can still occur. It is important to repair the damaged glass as quickly as possible.
The first step is to take out any glass fragments that are loose that are still in the frame. Don't forget to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection while doing this, since glass can be very sharp. After the shards have been removed, look around the floor of your home for other pieces that are loose. It is also a good idea for you to pull out any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.
Once the glass is removed, you will need to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass into the window frame) and replace them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure, and you'll need several tools to get the job done. local glaziers near me includes latex glazing putty; metal glazing points, pliers, a heat gun and a putty knife.
When removing the old glaze 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 that is removed from the sash from adhering to your tool. Also, if you end up removing some of the sash's wooden pieces, be sure to employ a chisel or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper because this could cause damage.
After that you can sand the wood. Once it's smooth then you can apply Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and further damage.
There are some quick fixes to repair a cracked double pane window. However, these methods will not repair the damage and should only be used as a temporary solution. The use of silicone caulk can aid in sealing the gap. However it is essential to use high-quality caulk with proper application 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 broken seal. This could be a major issue since it prevents gas or air that is used to insulate being trapped between two panes.
A double glazing expert can fix this issue easily. To correct the issue your window company will remove the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket to create a sturdy and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from occurring again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to aid in drying the area and prevent the condensation from happening again.
You might also notice a fog between glass panes in a double-glazed windows in the event that the frame has moved over time. This can cause the seal to break. This can be a major issue because it means your windows won't work correctly and will lose their energy efficiency.
While it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed window but this can be quite expensive and is normally only needed if there are severe issues with a window that is beyond repair. However, if you've discovered an issue with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty time, then it may be possible to have repaired for free or at a reduced cost.
It's worth checking the conditions of your warranty prior to you call the company to find out whether they can resolve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows are usually covered by warranties of between 10 and 20 years, so you might find that they can repair the faulty window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist to fix your double glazed windows and are usually in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a much cheaper option than buying and installing brand-new double glazed windows and is also more sustainable for the environment as well!
Broken Locks & Handles
When your window handle is broken or difficult to open, it can be a major issue since it hinders you from using your windows. It also gives burglars the chance to gain entry into your home. There are a number of options to address this issue but the most effective solution is to speak with an uPVC professional. They can repair the problem for you, or at least provide you with a replacement handle.
There are many types of window lock, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks which are typically found on uPVC frames. These locks are secured with bayonet-style rods, which can easily become jammed. If this occurs, the handle's nase is stuck in the out position and cannot be returned to the locked position wedged. This can be a gruelling issue, but it can be solved by following a few simple steps.
To fix the problem you must first take off the handle, which should be easy enough with a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you should then be aware of the screws that secure the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed you can then use a wrench or pliers to try and grasp the bolts that hold the shoot. If this does not work then you can put the tool between the frame and the window (the gap may differ between the two windows) and then make an "u" shape using your fingers to grasp the bolts.
If you can manage to free up the shoot bolts, then you can shut your window by moving the handle to a closed position. The gearbox (espag, espagnolette, etc.) is likely to be damaged and won't open with the handle. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts, which means that the window can be opened using the handle (and will still be secure) however, you'll require an entirely new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't longer operating smoothly it is possible to repair or replace them. It could be because the window was opened too vigorously or the hinge snapped. It could also be that they have a problem. It's easy to repair the hinge which means you don't have to buy new windows.
First, you'll need to remove the existing hinges. To do this, remove the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. After the hinges are removed, you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the proper size. The plywood should be thicker than the hinges that came with it to help support the weight when the window is closed and opened. Use wood filler to make sure the hole left by the hinges of the past will not leak or become loose.
After you've re-installed the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll have to paint them. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as is possible. When the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Regularly cleaning the friction stay track and lubricating hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also use wood preservatives in order to shield them from the elements. This will help prevent rusting and keep them looking good for the longest time you can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows, and can save you money on heating. As with any part of your house windows, they will eventually require to be repaired or replaced. Our Preston experts can help you if you observe any indications that your double-glazed windows aren't working correctly.