How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few distinct signs that your double glazed windows need repair. Draughts and water ingress are clear indicators of damage to window frames. They must be fixed in the shortest time possible.

Misting can also indicate that your window seals are damaged and in need of replacement. Replacing the window seals will solve the issue, and will stop leaks, draughts or condensation.

Broken Panes

One of the most frequent problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. While double pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane ones, accidents do occur and you'll want to fix a broken window as soon as you can.

The first step is to take out any loose shards of glass that remain in the frame. Be sure to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection when doing this, as glass can be very sharp. Check the floor for any loose pieces once the shards are gone. Also, it's an excellent idea to look for any hooks made of metal that may be keeping the panes in place and remove them also.

Once the glass has been removed, you will need to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass into the window frame) and replace them with new ones. This can be a lengthy procedure and requires a few tools to get the job done. This includes latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points; pliers; a heat gun; and a putty knife.

It is best to start at the top and work your way downwards as you remove the old points and glazing compound. This will ensure that you don't end up getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to the tool. Also, if you remove 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, sand the bare wood. Once it's smooth then you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to safeguard it from future water damage.

There are a few easy solutions you can try for a cracked double glazing doors-pane window however, these methods are not a solution to the crack and should be used only as a temporary fix. The use of silicone caulk can help seal the gap. However it is essential to use caulk of high-quality and with the correct application methods.

Condensation

If you've noticed any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of your windows has a broken seal. This could be a significant issue as it stops the insulating gas or air from being trapped between two panes.

A double glazing specialist can fix this issue easily. Your window repair professional will take off the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then, a new gasket is blown in to create 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 occurring again.

You may also notice fog between glass replacement double glazing panes in double-glazed windows when the frame has changed position over time. This will cause the seal to break. This can be a problem as it means that your windows won't function properly and lose their energy efficiency.

It is possible to replace double-glazed window's panes, however, this can be costly and is usually only necessary if the window is beyond repair. However, if you've spotted the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty period and the window is still in good condition, it might be possible to have the issue fixed for blown free or at least at a lower cost.

Verify the warranty conditions prior to making contact with the company to determine whether they can 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 can repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double glazing Replacement glass-glazed windows and will usually be able to do so quickly. This is a much 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 huge issue if your window handle is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You won't be able use your windows. It can also give burglars a chance to gain entry into your home. There are a few options to fix it, but the best way is to call a uPVC expert. They will be able to fix the issue for you, or at least offer you a new handle.

There are many kinds of window locks however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks that are found on most uPVC frames. These locks are secured with rods in the form of bayonets that can easily become jammed. If this occurs, the handle's nase will remain in the out position and won't be able to return to the locked wedge. This could be a frustrating problem, but it can be resolved with a few easy steps.

To fix the issue to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle, which is easy enough using the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle you'll be able to view the screws that hold the lock to frame. After the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts with the help of a wrench or a pair pliers. If this is unsuccessful it is possible to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and window (the gap could be different at each end of the window) and make an "u" shape with your hand to try to grab the shoot bolts.

If you can manage to free up the bolts that shoot, then you can shut your window by adjusting the handle to the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is most likely damaged, so it will not open when you pull the handle. You can refit the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts so that the window can still be opened using the handle.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are no longer operating smoothly it is possible to replace or repair them. It could be because the window was opened too vigorously, or that the hinge snapped. They could also have a flaw. Thankfully the replacement of the hinge is quick and easy and doesn't require you to buy a new window instead, you can get the old ones repaired instead.

First, you'll need to take off the hinges that are currently in place. This is done by unscrewing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. Once the hinges have been removed then you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the proper size. Make sure the plywood is larger than the original one to ensure it can support the weight of the window both open and closed. You'll also need to use a wood filler to ensure that the hole created by the hinge is filled to the brim and will not leak or loosen in the near future.

After you've filled in the holes and replaced the hinges, you will have to paint the doors. Be sure to apply a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as it can. Once the paint is dry, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives in order to shield them against the elements. This will stop rusting and keep them looking great for as long as you possibly can.

Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows, and can save you money on heating. But, just like any other aspect of your home, your windows can suffer from wear and tear and could require replacement or repair in time. If you're seeing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate, it's worth getting them looked at by our experts in Preston.