Why Do So Many People Want To Know About Repair Double Glazed Windows?
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows require to be fixed. Water ingress and draughts are clear signs of damage to the window frames. They should be repaired as soon as is possible.
Misting may also indicate that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals will solve the problem, and prevent leaks, draughts or condensation.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most frequent issues that double-glazed windows have to face. Although double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane windows, accidents do occur and you'll want to repair a broken window as soon as you can.
The first step to take is to remove any glass shards that are not completely removed that are still in the frame. Don't forget to wear eye protection and gloves while doing this, as glass can be very sharp. Examine the floor for fragments that have fallen off after the shards have been removed. It is also recommended to pull out any metal hooks holding the panes together.
Once the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old compound and glazing points (small fasteners that fix the glass to the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. This is a time-consuming procedure, and you'll need a few tools to get the job done. This includes latex glazing putty; metallic 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 move down. This will keep any wood or paint that is left in the sash from sticking to your tool. If you're looking to remove some of the wood from the sash use an utility knife or chisel instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage.
When you're done then sand the wood. When the wood is smooth then you can seal it using linseed or clear wood sealer. This will protect it from water and further damage.
There are a few quick fixes to repair cracked double pane windows. However, these solutions won't fix the problem and should only be used as an interim solution. The use of a silicone caulk may help seal the gap, but it's important to make sure that you use a high-quality caulk and adhere to the correct application methods.
Condensation
If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between the panes of glass that you have double glazing it is a sign that the window seal isn't working. This could be a major issue since it prevents gas or air that is used to insulate getting trapped between the two panes.
Fortunately, the issue can be easily repaired by an expert in double glazing. Your window repair professional will take off the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then a new gasket will be blown in to form an airtight seal and prevent condensation from happening again. They will also employ drying agents to help the area dry out and stop the condensation from happening again.
Another reason you may see a haze between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the frame has moved over time, which can break the crucial seal. This can be a huge issue, since your windows won't function effectively and lose energy efficiency.
It is possible to replace a double-glazed window's panes however, this can be costly and is usually only required in the event that the window is beyond repair. However, if you've spotted a fault in your double-glazed windows and you're still within the warranty period it could be possible to get the issue fixed for free or at least at a lesser cost.
It is worth checking the conditions of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they can resolve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double glazed windows are generally covered by warranties of between 10 to 20 years, which means you may find that they are able to repair defective window units instead of replacing them completely. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist out to fix your double glazed windows and will usually be able to do so quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to buying 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 problem as it makes it impossible to use your windows. It can also give burglars a chance to gain entry into your home. There are a variety of solutions to address the issue but the best option is to call an uPVC expert. Depending on the severity of the problem, they can usually fix it for you, or at a minimum, give you a new handle.
There are glazier of window locks but the most common one is the Maco or Mila locks that are found on most uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods to lock, and they are able to easily seize up. If this happens, the handle's nose will be stuck in the out position and won't be able to return to the wedged locked position. This can be a very difficult problem, but it can be resolved with a few simple steps.
To fix the problem to fix the issue, you'll need to first take off the handle, which should be easy enough with a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you should then be aware of the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed, you can attempt to grab the bolts with a wrench or pair of pliers. If this fails it is possible to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and window (the gap may be different on each end of the window) and create a "u" shape with your hands to try and grab the shoot bolts.
If you manage to unblock the bolts for shooting, you can close the window by adjusting the handle to the closed position. But, it will not open again by the handle, as 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 with the handle (and it will remain secure) however, you'll require a new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
It is possible to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't functioning smoothly. It could be due to the hinges being opened with too much force, the hinge dropping and snapping or they had a fault at the beginning, it can cause problems that make using your window difficult. It's easy to repair the hinge so you don't need to buy new windows.
Remove the hinges. To do this, loosen the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. After you've removed your hinges and replaced them with plywood boards cut to the proper dimensions. Make sure that the plywood is larger than the original one to ensure it can support the weight of the window when shut and open. It is also recommended to use wood filler to ensure that the hole left by the old hinge is filled completely and will not leak or loosen in the future.
After you've filled holes and replaced the hinges, then 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 is possible. Once the paint has dried it is possible to attach the window again. Make sure you tighten any screws that are loose.
Regular maintenance is also important for window hinges. Regularly cleaning the friction stay track and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will make them last longer. You can also apply wood preservatives to shield them from the elements, which will 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 will save you money on heating. However, like any other part of your home, windows are susceptible to wear and tear and may require replacement or repair in time. If you're noticing any indications that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate it's worth having them checked by our experts in Preston.