How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few telltale signs that your double glazed windows require repairs. Obviously, water ingress or draughts through the frames are a clear sign of damage to the window and must be repaired as soon as possible.

The misting could also mean that the window seals are 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 common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Double-pane windows are less difficult to break than single panes, however accidents can occur. You should repair broken glass as soon as you can.

Get rid of any glass fragments that might be inside the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves while removing the glass because it could be extremely sharp. Be sure to check the floor for loose pieces once the shards have been removed. Also, it is a good idea to search for any metal hooks that might be holding the panes together and take them out too.

Once the glass has been removed, you will have to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass to the frame of the window) and replace them with new ones. It is a long process that requires a few tools. You will require latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers, an electric heat gun, and a putty blade.

It is recommended to begin at the top and work your way downwards as you remove the old points and glazing compound. This will stop any wood or paint from the sash from sticking to the tool. Also, if you do end up removing a portion of the sash's wooden pieces, ensure that you use a chisel or utility knife instead of a chemical stripper as this can cause damage.

When you're done make sure you sand any bare wood to smooth it. Once repairs to double glazing is smooth you can seal it with clear wood sealer or linseed. This will shield it from future water damage.

There are a few easy fixes that you can try to repair a damaged double-pane window, but these methods will not repair the crack and should only be used as a temporary measure. Using a silicone caulk can help 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've noticed moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows has a failed seal. This can be a serious issue since it prevents gas or air that is used to insulate being trapped between two panes.

Fortunately, the issue can be easily repaired by an expert in double glazing. To correct the issue the window repair professional will take off the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing into a new gasket to create a sturdy and airtight seal that will stop condensation from happening again. They will also use drying agents to aid in drying the area out and prevent the condensation from occurring again.

You may also notice the glass panes are a little cloudy in double-glazed windows, in the event that the frame has changed position over time. This will break the seal. This can be a serious problem, as your windows will not work effectively and lose energy efficiency.

It is possible to change a double-glazed window's glass, however, it can be costly and is usually only required in the event that the window is beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed window and are still within the warranty period then you might be able get it repaired for free or at a reduced price.

It's a good idea to check the terms of your warranty prior to you call the company to find out whether they are able to solve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You may find that the company is able to repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double glazed windows and will typically be capable of doing it quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment!

Broken Locks & Handles

It can be a big problem if your window handle is damaged or broken, or if it is difficult to open. You won't be able to use your windows. It also gives burglars an opportunity to break into your home. There are many ways to fix this but the most effective solution is to speak with an uPVC professional. Based on the severity of the problem they will usually be able to fix it for you, or at the very least, provide you with a replacement handle.

There are a number of different kinds of window locks. However, the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority uPVC frames. They lock using rods that resemble bayonets, which could easily jam. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it will not return to the wedged locked position. This can be a frustrating problem, but can be solved by following a few simple steps.

To fix the issue you'll need to remove the handle. This is simple enough with the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you will be able see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed and the handle is removed, you can use a wrench or pliers to attempt to grab the shoot bolts. If this doesn't work then you might need to insert the tool through the gap between the window and frame (the gap could be different at each end of the window) and then make an "u" shape using your hands to attempt to grab the shoot bolts.

You can close your window by moving the handle back to its closed position if in a position to release the bolts that shoot. The gearbox (espag, espagnolette, etc.) is likely to be damaged and will not open when you pull the handle. 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 an entirely new handle and gearbox.

Broken Hinges

It could be necessary to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they are not operating properly. Whether this is due to them having been opened by too much force, the hinge snapping and dropping or they had a fault at the beginning and it causes problems that make it difficult to use your window. It's easy to fix the hinge, so you don't need to purchase new windows.

Take off the hinges. This is accomplished by removing the screws that hold the hinges to the frame. After you've removed your hinges and replaced them with plywood boards cut to the correct dimensions. The plywood should be more dense than the hinges that came with it to help support the weight of the window when it is shut and opened. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left by the old hinge does not leak or become loose.

After you've filled in the holes and put on the hinges, you will need to paint the doors. Be sure to apply a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Once the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Regular maintenance is also essential for hinges on windows. Regularly cleaning the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will ensure they last longer. You can also apply wood preservatives in order to shield them against the elements. This will help prevent rusting and keep them looking good for as long as you can.

A double-glazed window can help you save money on heating, because it's more energy efficient than windows with only one glass. But, just like any other component of your home, windows can suffer from wear and tear and may require repair or replacement over time. If you're experiencing any indications that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate and aren't working properly, you should have them examined by our experts in Preston.