Ten Situations In Which You'll Want To Learn About Repair Double Glazed Windows
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few telltale indicators that indicate that your double-glazed windows require repair. Water ingress and draughts are obvious signs of damage to the frames of the windows. They should be repaired in the shortest time possible.
However, misting could be an indication that your window seals need replacing. Replacing your window seals will solve the problem, and prevent leaks, draughts, or condensation.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single panes, yet accidents do happen. repairs to double glazing will want to repair the broken glass as soon as possible.
The first step to take is to remove any loose shards of glass that are still in the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection when doing this, as glass can be extremely sharp. Examine the floor for loose pieces once the shards are gone. It's also a good idea for you to remove any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.
Once the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old glass compound and glazing points (small fasteners that fix the glass to the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you'll need several tools to complete the task. This includes latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers; heat gun and a putty knife.
When you are removing the old glazing compound and points It's a good idea to start at the top of the sash, and move down. This will stop any paint or wood from the sash from sticking to your tool. Also, if you do end up removing a portion of the sash's wood be sure to employ a chisel or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, because this could cause damage.
When you're done you can sand the wood. Once it is smooth you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to shield it from future water damage.
You can use a few quick fixes to repair cracked double pane windows. But these fixes won't fix the problem and should be used as a temporary solution. Utilizing silicone caulk will help seal the gap. However, it is important to use high-quality caulk with the correct application techniques.
Condensation
If you notice any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, this means that the window seal has failed. This could be a cause for concern because it prevents gas or the insulating air from being trapped between the two glass panes which means it cannot do its job effectively and can cause temperature fluctuations that cause condensation to form.
Fortunately, the issue can be easily fixed by an expert in double glazing. To resolve the issue your window company will remove the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing in a new gasket. This will create a sturdy and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from occurring again. They'll also use a special drying agent to help dry the area and prevent the condensation from recurring.
The other reason why you may see a haze between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the frame has moved over time, which can break the all-important seal. This can be a huge issue as your windows won't function correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Windows however, it can be extremely expensive and is usually only needed when there are serious issues with the window that are beyond repair. If you have a problem with your double-glazed window and are still in the warranty period, you may be able to get it repaired for free or at lower cost.
Check your warranty terms before calling the company to find out whether they can fix the problem without replacing the whole window. Double glazed windows are typically 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, then they'll likely send a specialist to repair your double glazed windows and will usually be capable of doing it quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better on the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
If the handle on your window is broken or difficult to open, it could be a major problem as it prevents you from using your windows. It could also give burglars the chance to break into your house. There are several options to fix it, but the best way is to contact an uPVC expert. Depending on the severity of the issue they will usually be able to come and repair it for you, or at the very least, provide you with a new handle.
There are a number of different types of window locks, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock, which can be found on the majority uPVC frames. They lock using bayonet-style rods, which can easily be jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it is unable to return to the wedged lock position. This can be a very frustrating issue, but it is able to be solved by following a few steps.
To resolve the issue, you will need to first remove the handle. This should be easy enough with 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 make use of pliers or a wrench to attempt to grasp the bolts that hold the shoot. If this doesn't work then you can place the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap may differ at each end of the windows) and make an "u" shape using your fingers to grasp the bolts.
You can close your window by moving the handle to the closed position if able to free the bolts that shoot. However, it won't open again by the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts so that the window can be opened with the handle.
Broken Hinges
It could be necessary to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they're not functioning smoothly. It could be that the window was opened too forcefully, or that the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a defect. Thankfully the replacement of the hinge is simple and quick, so there's no need to purchase a new window - you can simply get the old ones repaired instead.
Remove the hinges. This is done by unscrewing the screws that hold the hinges to the frame. Once you've removed the hinges and replaced them with plywood boards that are cut to the right size. The plywood should be more dense than the hinges that came with it to help support the weight of the window when it is closed and opened. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left by the hinge of the past does not leak or become loose.
After you've replaced the hinges and filled the holes, you'll have to paint them. Use a good paint to make sure it lasts as long as it can. After the paint has dried, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Regularly cleaning the track of friction and lubricating hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also apply wood preservatives to shield them from the elements, which can help to prevent corrosion and keep them looking good for as long as is possible.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows, and can save you money on heating. But, just like any other aspect of your home, windows will show wear and tear and could require repair or replacement as time passes. Our Preston experts can assist you if there are signs that the double-glazed windows you have aren't functioning properly.