"The Ultimate Cheat Sheet For Repair Double Glazed Windows
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few telltale indications that your double glazed windows require repair. 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.
Misting can also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the window seals will solve the problem, and prevent leaks, draughts or condensation.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems that a double-glazed window faces is broken glass. While double pane windows are more difficult to break than single pane windows however, accidents can occur and you'll need to repair a damaged window as soon as you can.
Take out any glass fragments that could be in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection when you remove the glass because it is extremely sharp. Check the floor for any loose pieces once the shards are gone. Also, it is recommended to look for any hooks of metal that may be keeping the panes in place and remove them too.
Once the glass has been removed, you'll need to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass to the window frame), and replace them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure and requires a few tools to complete the task. You will require latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers heat gun and a putty blade.
It's best to start at the top and work your way downwards in removing the old points and glazing compound. This will prevent any wood or paint that is removed that is left in the sash from sticking to your tool. If you have to take off some of the wood from the sash use the utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage.
When you're done make sure you scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. Once it's smooth, you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to protect it from future water damage.
You can use a few quick fixes to fix cracked double pane windows. However, these methods will not repair the damage and should be used as a temporary solution. Utilizing silicone caulk will aid in sealing the gap. However, it is important to use high-quality caulk with the correct application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed water or mist between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of your windows is suffering from a failing seal. This could be a problem because it stops the insulating air or gas from being trapped between the two glass panes which means it cannot do its job correctly and this can lead to temperature changes which can cause condensation to form.
Fortunately, this can be easily repaired by an expert in double glazing. The window company will take out the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to correct the issue. Then the gasket is blown in to form an airtight seal and prevent condensation from happening again. They will also use a drying agent to aid in drying the area out and stop the condensation from recurring.
The other reason why you may notice mist between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the framework has shifted over time, which causes cracks in the seal that is so crucial. This can be a problem because it means your windows won't function properly and will lose their energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed Windows but this can be quite expensive and is usually only necessary in the event of serious issues with a window that are beyond repair. However, if you've spotted the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows and you're still within the warranty time it could be possible to have the issue fixed for free or at least at a reduced cost.
It is worth checking the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they are able to solve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have warranties of between 10 and 20 years. It is possible that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist to fix your double glazed windows and will typically be able to do so 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
It can be a big issue if your window handle is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You will not be able use your windows. This could also give burglars the opportunity to break into your house. There are a variety of solutions to address the issue however the most effective method is to contact an uPVC expert. They can repair the problem for you, or give you a replacement handle.
There are a few different kinds of window locks but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks that are found on most uPVC frames. These locks lock with rods that resemble bayonets, which could easily be jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it will not return to the wedged lock position. This can be a frustrating issue, but it can be solved with a few easy steps.
To resolve the issue to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle, which should be done with a screwdriver. After removing double glazing repair , you will be able see the screws that hold the lock to frame. Once the screws are removed, you can try to grab the bolts using an awl or a pair of pliers. If this does not work then you can place the tool between the frame and the window (the gap may differ between the two windows) and then make an "u" shape with your hands to grasp the bolts.
If you are able to free up the bolts that shoot, then you can close the window by adjusting the handle to a closed position. But, it will not be able to open again using the handle, since the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is most likely to be defective. It is possible to refit 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 need to order a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are no longer operating smoothly and smoothly, you might need to replace or repair them. It could be because the window was opened too tightly or the hinge snapped. They could also have a defect. Thankfully it is simple and quick, so there's no need to buy 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. Once you've removed the hinges you can replace them with plywood boards that are cut to the correct dimensions. Make sure the plywood is more robust than the original board so that it can withstand the weight of the window both open and closed. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left by the old hinge will not leak or become loose.
After you've filled in the holes and replaced hinges, you'll have to paint the doors. Use a quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as possible. When the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is also essential for hinges on windows. You can help them last longer by regularly cleaning the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply wood preservatives to shield them from the elements. This will stop 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 help you save money on heating. Like any other part of your home windows, they will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. Our Preston experts can assist you if you notice any indications that your double-glazed windows are not functioning properly.