What NOT To Do In The Repair Double Glazed Windows Industry
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few telltale signs that your double glazed windows require repair. Draughts and water ingress are clear indications of damage to the frames of the windows. They must be fixed as soon as is possible.
However, misting could be an indication that your window seals require replacement. Replacing the seals will solve the issue and stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Double pane windows are less likely to break than single-pane ones however, accidents can happen and you will want to repair a broken window as quickly as possible.
The first step to take is to remove any loose shards of glass that remain in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection when removing the glass, because it could be extremely sharp. Check the floor for any fragments that are not fixed after the shards have been removed. Also, it is recommended to look for any metal hooks that could be holding the panes in place and take them out as well.
After the glass has been removed and the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old glass compound and glazing points (small fasteners that pin the glass to the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long process that requires the use of a few tools. These include latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers; heat gun; and a putty knife.
When removing the old glazing compound and points, it's recommended to begin at the top of the sash, and work your way down. This will prevent any paint or wood that is left in the sash from sticking to the tool. If you need to take off some of the wood from the sash, use an utility knife or chipper instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage.
After double glazing window repairs , sand the bare wood. Once it is smooth then you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to protect it from water and future damage.
You can use some quick fixes to fix a cracked double pane window. But these fixes will not repair the damage and should only serve as an interim solution. The use of silicone caulk can help to seal the gap. However it is essential to use caulk of high-quality and with proper application methods.
Condensation
If you notice any moisture or mist between your double glazing glass panes, this means that the window seal isn't working. This can be a problem because it prevents the insulating air or gas from getting trapped between the two glass panes, so it won't do its job properly and this can cause temperature fluctuations which can cause condensation to form.
A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. Your window contractor will remove the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then, a new gasket will be blown into to form an airtight seal, preventing condensation from occurring in the future. They'll also employ a drying agent to help dry the area and help stop the condensation from occurring again.
There may be a mist between glass panes in double-glazed windows when the frame has changed over time. This will break the seal. This could be a major issue as your windows will not work effectively and lose energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed Windows, this can be very expensive and is typically only necessary if there are severe issues with the window that are beyond repair. However, if you've discovered an issue with your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty period, then it may be possible to get repaired for free or at a lower cost.
It's worth checking the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they can resolve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have a guarantee of 10 to 20 years. You may find that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they will likely send out a specialist to fix your double-glazed windows. They're able to accomplish this in a short time. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
If the handle on your window is broken or hard to open, it can be a major issue since it hinders you from using your windows. This also gives burglars the opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are many options to address this issue but the most effective solution is to speak with a uPVC professional. They can repair the problem for you, or at least give you a replacement handle.
There are many different types of window locks, however the most well-known is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority of 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 the wedged locked position. This could be a difficult problem, but it can be resolved by following a few easy steps.
To fix the issue, you will need to first remove the handle, which is easy enough using the aid of a screwdriver. After the handle is removed, you should then be aware of the screws holding the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed, you may try to grab the bolts using the help of a wrench or a pair pliers. If this doesn't work then you can put the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap may be different between the two windows) and make an "u" shape with your hand to grab the bolts.
If you manage to remove the bolts that shoot, then you can close the window by adjusting the handle into the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is probably faulty and will not open by the handle. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts which means that the window can be opened by the handle (and it will remain secure), but you will need to order a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't functioning properly and smoothly, you might need to repair or replace them. Whether this is due to them having been opened with too much force, the hinge dropping and snapping or if they were defective in the first place, it can cause problems that make using your window difficult. It's easy to repair the hinge which means you don't have to buy new windows.
First, you'll need to remove the existing hinges. This is done by removing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. Once the hinges have been removed, you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the proper size. Make sure that the plywood is larger than the original one to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window when open and closed. Use wood filler to ensure that the hole left behind by the hinge of the past will not leak or break.
After you've filled in the holes and replaced hinges, you'll have to paint the doors. Be sure to use a high-quality paint to ensure that it will last for as long as possible. Once the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window. Tighten any screws that are loose.
Regular maintenance is also important for window hinges. Cleaning regularly the track of friction and lubricating hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also apply wood preservatives to protect them from the elements. This will help prevent rusting and keep them looking great for as long as you possibly can.
Double-glazed windows can help you reduce your heating bills, because it's more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. However, just like every other part of your home, windows are susceptible to wear and tear and might need repairing or replacing over time. Our Preston experts can assist you if there are indications that your double-glazed windows are not functioning properly.