What The Heck What Exactly Is Repair Double Glazed Windows?
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are several tell-tale indications that your double glazed windows require repair. Water ingress or draughts through the frames are an obvious indication of window damage and will need to be fixed in the shortest time possible.
The misting could also mean that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the issue and stop condensation, draughts, or leaks.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most common problems that double-glazed windows have to face. Double-pane windows are harder to break than single panes, yet accidents can still occur. You should repair broken glass as soon as you can.
Get rid of any glass fragments that might be in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection when removing the glass, because it is extremely sharp. Examine the floor for fragments that have fallen off after the shards are gone. It's also a good idea for you to pull out any hooks that hold the panes together.
Once the glass is removed, you'll have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass to the window frame), and replace them with new ones. It's a lengthy process that requires a few tools. You'll need latex glazing putty and metal glazing points, pliers a heatgun and a putty blade.
When removing the old glaze compound and points it is best to start at the top of the sash, and work your way down. This will stop any paint or wood that is left in the sash from sticking to the tool. Also, if repairing double glazing end up removing some of the sash's wooden pieces, be sure to use a chisel or utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, because this could cause damage.
When you're done ensure that you remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. Once it is smooth you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to protect it from water and future damage.
There are a few simple fixes that you can try for a window that is cracked by a double-pane however, these methods won't fix the crack and should only be used as a temporary measure. Utilizing silicone caulk will help seal the gap. However it is essential to use high-quality caulk with the correct application techniques.
Condensation
If you notice any moisture or mist between your double glazing glass panes it means that the window seal isn't working. This can be a problem because it stops the gas or air that is used to insulate from being trapped between the two panes of glass, so it won't do its job correctly and this will lead to temperature changes that cause condensation to form.
A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. The window company will take out the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to correct the issue. Then the gasket will be blown into to create an airtight seal and prevent condensation from occurring again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to help dry out the area and stop the condensation from occurring again.
There may be a fog between glass panes in a double-glazed windows if the frame has changed position over time. This will crack the seal. This can be a problem as it means that your windows won't work correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Windows, this can be very expensive and is usually only necessary when there are serious problems with the window that is beyond repair. However, if you've discovered a fault in your double-glazed windows and you're still within the warranty time it could be possible to have repaired for free or at a lesser cost.
It is worth checking the conditions of your warranty prior to you contact the company to determine whether they are able to solve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have a guarantee of 10 to 20 years. You may find that the company can 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 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 for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
It could be a major issue if the handle of your window is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You will not be able to use your windows. It could also give burglars an opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are many ways to fix this however the most effective option is to connect with an uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the issue, they can usually come and repair it for you or at a minimum, give you an alternative handle.
There are many different kinds of window locks, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority uPVC frames. They lock using bayonet-style rods, which can easily become jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it is unable to return to its wedged locked position. This can be a annoying issue, but it is able to be fixed with a few simple steps.
To resolve the issue, you'll need to remove the handle. This should be simple enough with the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle you'll be able to see the screws that attach the lock to frame. After the screws have been removed you can then employ pliers or a wrench to try and grasp the bolts that hold the shoot. If this is unsuccessful, you may need to insert the tool through the gap between the window and frame (the gap can differ on the opposite side of the window) and create an "u" shape using your hands to try to grasp the bolts.
If you are able to free up the bolts for shooting, you can close your window by moving the handle to the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is most likely damaged and won't open when you pull 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 are no functioning properly, you may need to have them repaired or replaced. It could be due to the hinges being opened with too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or they had a fault to begin with, it can cause problems that make using your window difficult. It's easy to replace the hinge, so you don't need to purchase new windows.
First, you'll need to remove the existing hinges. This is done by removing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. After you've removed the hinges, you can replace them with plywood boards cut to the right size. The plywood should be more dense than the original one to be able to withstand the weight when the window is opened and closed. You'll also want to use 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 filled in the holes and replaced the hinges, you will need to paint the doors. Make sure you apply a high-quality paint to ensure it will last as long as possible. Once the paint has dried, you can reconnect the window. Tighten any loose screws.
Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can ensure they last longer by cleaning them regularly on the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, which can help to stop rust and keep them looking great for as long as is possible.
Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating costs, since it is more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. But, just like any other part of your home, your windows are susceptible to wear and tear and may require replacement or repair as time passes. If you're experiencing any indications that your double glazed windows aren't functioning properly, it's worth getting them examined by our experts in Preston.