Why People Don't Care About Repair Double Glazed Windows
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are some telltale signs your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indications of damage to the window frames. They must be fixed as quickly as possible.
Misting can also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals can fix the problem and prevent condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most common problems that a double-glazed window faces is broken glass. Although double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane windows, accidents do occur and you'll want to repair a damaged window as soon as you can.
The first step to take is to get rid of any loose shards of glass that are still in the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and eye protection while doing this, since glass can be extremely sharp. Check the floor for any fragments that have fallen off after the shards are gone. It is also a good idea to look for any metal hooks that could be keeping the panes in place and take them out as well.
After the glass has been removed, you'll have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners which pin the glass into the frame of the window) and replace them with new ones. This can be a lengthy process and you will need several tools to get the job done. You will need latex glazing putty and metal glazing points, pliers, an electric heat gun, and a putty blade.
It's best to begin at the top and work your way downwards when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will help you avoid getting any of the sash's paint or wood stuck to the tool. If you're looking to take off some of the wood from the sash employ the utility knife or chisel instead of chemical strippers which can cause damage.
After you're done, sand the bare wood. Once the wood is smooth then you can seal it with clear or linseed wood sealer. This will help protect it against water and future damage.
There are a few simple fixes that you can try for a cracked double-pane window, but these methods will not repair the crack and should be used only as a temporary measure. A silicone caulk can help to seal the gap, but it is important to make sure that you use a high-quality caulk that is applied using the proper methods.
Condensation
If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing it means that the window seal has failed. This could be a significant problem as it prevents the insulating gas or air from getting trapped between the two panes.
A double glazing specialist can easily fix this issue. Your window repair professional will take off both 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 to prevent condensation from occurring in the future. They will also apply drying agents to aid in drying the area out and prevent the condensation from occurring again.
Another reason you might notice a misty appearance between the glass panes of windows with double glazing is because 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 energy efficiency.
Although it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed Window but this can be quite expensive and is usually only required if there are severe problems with the window that are beyond repair. However, if you've discovered the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows and you're still within the warranty period it could be possible to get it fixed for free or at a lower cost.
Review your warranty's terms prior to contacting the company to determine whether they can fix the problem without replacing the whole window. Double-glazed windows usually have a guarantee of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case you're in, they'll send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows. They can usually complete the task quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to buying and installing brand-new double glazed windows and 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 prevents you from using your windows. It can also give burglars the chance to break into your house. There are several options to address this issue however the most effective option is to connect with a uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the problem they will usually be able to come and repair it for you or at a minimum, give you an alternative handle.
There are several kinds of window locks, but the most common one 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 problem, but can be fixed by following a few simple steps.
To resolve the issue, you will need to first remove the handle, which is easy enough using the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you will be in a position to see the screws holding the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts using the help of a wrench or a pair pliers. If this fails then you can place the tool between the frame and the window (the gap may be different at the ends of the windows) and make an "u" shape with your fingers to grasp the bolts.
You can close your window by moving the handle to the closed position if capable of removing the shoot bolts. However, it won't open again with the handle because the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is most likely to be defective. local double glazing repairs can replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts in order that the window can be opened using the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't functioning properly and smoothly, you might need to have them repaired or replaced. If this is because of them being opened with too much force, the hinge dropping and snapping or if they were defective to begin with and it causes problems that make it difficult to use your window. It's easy to fix the hinge, so you don't have to buy new windows.
The first step is to remove the existing hinges. To do this, unscrew the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. Once you've removed the hinges and replaced them with plywood boards that are cut to the right size. Make sure that the plywood is more robust than the original board to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window both open and closed. You'll also want to use a wood filler to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is completely filled and will not leak or break in the near future.
After you've replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll have to paint them. Use a good paint to make sure it lasts as long as is possible. After the paint has dried it is possible to attach the window again. Make sure you tighten any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is essential for window hinges. Cleaning regularly the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will ensure they last longer. You can also use a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, which can help to keep them from rust and maintain their appearance for as long as possible.
Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows, and can save you money on heating. But, just like any other part of your home, your windows will show wear and tear and might require repair or replacement in time. Our Preston experts can help you if you notice any signs that your double-glazed windows aren't working correctly.