"Ask Me Anything:10 Responses To Your Questions About Repair Double Glazed Windows
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are some telltale signs your double-glazed windows must be repaired. Obviously, water ingress or draughts through the frames are an obvious sign of damage to the window and should be repaired 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 solve the issue and stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Double pane windows are much harder to break than single pane windows however, accidents can happen and you will want to repair a broken window as quickly as possible.
Get rid of any glass fragments that may still be in the frame. Make sure to wear eye protection and gloves when doing this, as glass can be sharp. Once the shards have been removed, check the floor of your home for any additional loose pieces. Also, it's an excellent idea to search for any hooks of metal that could be keeping the panes in place and remove them also.
After the glass is removed then you can begin the process of removing the old glass compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass to the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure and requires a few tools to get the job done. You will need latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers, heat gun and a putty blade.
It is recommended to begin at the top and work your way downwards in removing the old points and glazing compound. This will keep any paint or wood that is left in the sash from sticking to your tool. Also, if you end up removing some of the sash's wooden pieces, ensure that you use a chisel or utility knife instead of a chemical stripper since this could cause damage.
After you've finished make sure you remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. When the wood is smooth you can seal it with linseed or clear wood sealer. This will help protect it against water and future damage.
There are a few easy fixes that you can try to repair a damaged double-pane window, but these methods are not a solution to the crack and should only be used as a temporary measure. The use of a silicone caulk may help seal the gap, but it is important to make sure that you use a high-quality caulk and follow proper application methods.
Condensation
If you've noticed any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows has a failed seal. This could be a cause for concern because it stops the insulating air or gas from getting trapped between the two glass panes, so it won't do its job properly and this can lead to temperature changes that result in condensation forming.
Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by an expert in double glazing. The window company will take out 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 in the future. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to aid in drying the area and prevent the condensation from occurring again.
There may be a fog between glass panes in double-glazed windows when the frame has changed position over time. This can cause the seal to break. This can be a problem as it means that your windows won't work correctly 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've noticed the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty time and the window is still in good condition, it might be possible to have the issue fixed for free or at least at a lesser cost.
Verify the warranty conditions prior to calling the company to find out whether they can solve the issue without having to replace the entire window. repairs to double glazing windows glazed windows are generally covered by guarantees of between 10 to 20 years, which means you may find that they can repair the defective window units instead of replacing them completely. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to fix your double glazed windows and are usually capable of doing it quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment!
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 won't be able to use your windows. This could also give burglars the chance to break into your house. There are several ways to fix this but the most effective solution is to get in touch with an uPVC professional. Based on the severity of the issue they are able to usually come and repair it for you, or at least provide you with an alternative handle.
There are a number of different types of window locks, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority uPVC frames. They lock using rods in the form of bayonets that can easily jam. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position, and it is unable to return to its wedged locked position. This can be a annoying issue, but it can be fixed by following a few steps.
To fix the issue to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle. This should be easy enough with the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you'll be able to view the screws that attach the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed you can then employ pliers or a wrench to try and grab the shoot bolts. If this does not work then you can put the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap could be different at the ends of the windows) and make an "u" shape using your fingers to grasp the bolts.
If you can manage to remove the shoot bolts, then you can close the 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 replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts so that the window will still be opened using the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are no working properly and smoothly, you might need to have them repaired or replaced. It could be that the window was opened too forcefully, or that the hinge snapped. It could also be that they have a defect. It's easy to replace the hinge, which means you don't have to purchase new windows.
First, you'll need remove the existing hinges. To do this, remove the screws that attach the frame to the hinges. After you've removed your hinges and replaced them with plywood boards cut to the right size. Make sure that the plywood is thicker than the original board so that it can withstand the weight of the window both it is closed and open. Use wood filler to make sure the hole left by the hinge of the past does not leak or break.
After you've filled in the holes and replaced the hinges, you will have to paint the doors. Use a good paint to ensure that it lasts as long as is possible. Once the paint is dry it is possible to reconnect the window. Secure any screws that are loose.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can help them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives to shield them from the elements, helping to prevent rust and maintain their appearance for as long as you can.
Having a double glazed window can help you save money on heating, as it is more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. However, just like every other aspect of your home, windows will show wear and tear and may require repair or replacement over time. If you're noticing any indications that your double glazed windows aren't working properly, it's worth getting them looked at by our experts in Preston.