Is Repair Double Glazed Windows The Greatest Thing There Ever Was?
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows require to be repaired. Obviously, water ingress or draughts through the frames are an obvious sign of damage to the window and must be repaired in the shortest time possible.
However, misting may be a sign that your window seals require replacement. Replacing your window seals will solve the issue and will stop leaks, draughts, or condensation.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is among the most frequent problems that double-glazed windows have to face. Double-pane windows are less difficult to break than single panes, however accidents do occur. You will want to repair the broken glass as soon as possible.
Remove any loose glass fragments that might be inside the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection when you remove the glass because it could be extremely sharp. Check the floor for any loose pieces once the shards have been removed. Also, it is recommended to look for any metal hooks that might be holding the panes in place and pull these out as well.
Once the glass has been removed, you will have to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass into the window frame), and replace them with new ones. It's a lengthy process that requires some tools. You'll need latex glazing putty and metal glazing points, pliers heat gun and a putty blade.
It's best to begin at the top and work your way down as you remove the old points and glazing compound. This will keep any wood or paint that is removed that is left in the sash from sticking to the tool. Also, if you do end up removing a portion of the sash's wood make sure you employ a chisel, or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, as this can cause damage.
After you're done you can sand the wood. Once it is smooth you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to protect it from future water damage.
There are a few simple fixes you can attempt to repair a damaged double-pane window however, these methods won't fix the crack and should only be used as a temporary fix. Utilizing silicone caulk will aid in sealing the gap. However it is crucial to use caulk of high-quality and with proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between the panes of glass that you have double glazing it means that your window seal isn't working. This can be a problem because it blocks gas or the insulating air from being 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.
A double glazing expert can fix this issue easily. The window company will take out both the window sash and window as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then a new gasket is blown in to create an airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They'll also use a special drying agent to aid in drying the area and stop the condensation from occurring again.
The other reason why you may see a haze between the glass panes of windows with double glazing is because the framework has shifted over time, which breaks the seal that is so crucial. This can be a serious issue as windows that are not functioning correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed Windows but this can be quite expensive and is usually only required if there are severe issues with the window that are beyond repair. However, if you've spotted an issue with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period and the window is still in good condition, it might be possible to get repaired for free or at a lesser cost.
Review your warranty's terms prior to contacting the company to determine whether they can fix the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. It is possible that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. 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. double glazing repair is a much cheaper option than buying and installing brand new double glazed windows and is also better for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
If the handle on your window is broken or difficult to open, it can be a major issue since it makes it impossible to use your windows. It could also give burglars an opportunity to break into your home. There are a few options to fix it however the most effective method is to contact a uPVC expert. They can repair the problem for you, or at least provide you with a replacement handle.
There are many types of window lock, however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks that are found on most uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock and these can easily seize up. If this happens, the handle's nose will be stuck in the out position and cannot be returned to the wedged locked position. This can be a very difficult problem, but it can be fixed with a few simple steps.
To fix the issue you'll have to remove the handle. This can be done easily enough using a screwdriver. After removing the handle you will be able see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed and the handle is removed, you can use a wrench or pliers to attempt to grab the bolts for the shoot. If this does not work then you can place the tool between the frame and the window (the gap could be different between the two windows) and create an "u" shape with your hand to grab the bolts.
You can shut your window by adjusting the handle back to its closed position if you're in a position to release the shoot bolts. But it won't be able to open again by the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to refit the gearbox without the shoot bolts thus the window will be opened with the handle (and it will remain secure) however, you'll need to order an entirely new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't working properly, you may need to replace or repair them. If this is because of the hinges being opened with too much force the hinge snapping and dropping or they had a fault in the first place and it causes problems that make it difficult to use your window. Fortunately, replacing the hinge is simple and quick and there's no need to purchase windows from scratch - you can simply get your old ones fixed instead.
The first step is to remove the hinges currently installed. This is done by removing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. After the hinges are removed then you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the correct size. The plywood should be more dense than the hinges that came with it to help support the weight when the window is shut and opened. It is also recommended 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 to paint them. Make sure you apply a high-quality paint to ensure that it will last as long as possible. Once the paint is dry 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 cleaning them regularly on the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives to protect them against the elements. This will stop rusting and ensure they look great for the longest time you can.
Having a double glazed window can help you save money on heating, as it's more energy efficient than windows with only one glass. However, just like every other component of your home, your windows are susceptible to wear and tear and might require repair or replacement as time passes. Our Preston experts can assist you if you observe any signs that your double-glazed windows aren't functioning correctly.