How To Beat Your Boss On Repair Double Glazed Windows
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are certain indicators that tell you your double-glazed windows require to be fixed. Water ingress and draughts are obvious indicators of damage to window frames. They should be repaired as soon as is possible.
Misting can also indicate that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will solve the issue and will 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 more difficult to break than single-pane ones However, accidents do happen and you will want to repair a broken window as quickly as possible.
The first step to take is to remove any glass fragments that are loose that remain in the frame. Don't forget to wear gloves and eye protection while doing this, since glass can be extremely sharp. Once the shards are removed, inspect the floor of your home for any extra pieces of glass that may be left. Also, it is recommended to search for any hooks made of metal that could be keeping the panes in place and remove them also.
Once the glass is removed then you can begin the process of removing the old glass compound and glazing points (small fasteners that pin the glass in the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. This can be a lengthy process and you will need several tools to complete the task. You'll need latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers an electric heat gun, and a putty blade.
When removing the old glazing compound and points, it's recommended to begin at the top of the sash and begin to work your way down. This will help you avoid getting any of the sash's paint or wood stuck to your tool. If you have to remove some of the wood from the sash, make use of an utility knife or chisel instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage.
When you're done you can sand the wood. Once it is smooth then you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and future damage.
You can use a few simple fixes to fix cracks in a double-pane window. However, these solutions won't fix the problem and should only serve as a temporary solution. Use of silicone caulk will help seal the gap. However, it is important to use high-quality caulk with proper application techniques.
If you've noticed any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it's a sign that one of your windows is suffering from a failing seal. This can be a serious problem as it prevents the gas or air that is used to insulate getting trapped between the two panes.
A double glazing specialist can fix this issue easily. Your window contractor will remove the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then the gasket is blown in to create an airtight seal to prevent condensation from occurring again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to aid in drying the area 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 moved slightly over time, which breaks the crucial seal. This can be a serious problem, as your windows will not work effectively and lose energy efficiency.
While it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed Window however, it can be extremely expensive and is usually only needed in the event of serious problems with the window that are beyond repair. However, if you've spotted the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty time, then it may be possible to have it fixed for free or at least at a lower cost.
Verify the warranty conditions prior to contacting the company to determine whether they can solve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double glazed windows are generally covered by guarantees of between 10 and 20 years, so you may find that they're able to repair the damaged window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows and will typically be in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better on the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
When your window handle is broken or difficult to open, it could be a major issue since it prevents you from using your windows. This also gives burglars an opportunity to break into your home. There are several solutions to address the issue however the most effective method is to speak with an uPVC expert. Depending on the severity of the problem they will usually be able to come and repair it for you or at least provide you with a replacement handle.
There are many different kinds of window locks. However, the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks use bayonet style rods to lock, and they are very easy to seize up. 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 problem, but it can be solved with just a few steps.
To fix the issue, you will need to first remove the handle. This should be done with the help of a screwdriver. After the handle is removed, you'll be able to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts using an awl or a pair of pliers. If this fails, you may need to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and window (the gap may differ on the opposite side of the window) and make a "u" shape with your hand to try to grab the shoot bolts.
If you manage to free up the shoot bolts, then you can close the window by moving the handle into the closed position. The gearbox (espag, espagnolette, etc.) is likely to be damaged and won't open by the handle. You can replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts, so that the window can be opened by the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't longer operating smoothly and smoothly, you might need to repair or replace them. Whether this is due to them being opened with too much force, the hinge snapping and dropping or if they were defective at the beginning the issue could cause issues that make using your window difficult. It's simple to repair the hinge so you don't have to purchase new windows.
First, you'll need to remove the hinges currently installed. To do this, loosen the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. Once the hinges have been removed you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the right size. The plywood should be more dense than the original one to be able to withstand the weight of the window when it is opened and closed. You'll also want to use a wood filler to ensure that the hole left by the old hinge is filled to the brim and will not leak or loosen in the future.
After you've re-installed hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Make sure to apply a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as it can. After the paint has dried and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can ensure they last longer by regularly cleaning the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives to shield them against the elements. This will stop corrosion and ensure they look great for as long as you can.
Having a double glazed window can help you reduce your heating bills, since it's more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. Like every other component of your home, your windows will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. If you're noticing any of the signs that your double glazed windows aren't functioning properly it's worth having them checked by our experts in Preston.