How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows require to be repaired. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indicators of damage to window frames. They must be fixed in the shortest time possible.

However, misting may be an indication that your window seals require replacing. Replacing your window seals can solve the problem, and prevent leaks, draughts or condensation.

Broken Panes

One of the most common issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Double pane windows are much harder to break than single-pane ones however, accidents can occur and you'll want to repair a broken window as soon as is possible.

The first step is to get rid of any glass shards that are not completely removed that are still in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection when you remove the glass as it can be very sharp. Examine the floor for fragments that have fallen off after the shards have been removed. Also, it is an excellent idea to search for any hooks made of metal that might be holding the panes together and remove them too.

After the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old glass compound and glazing points (small fasteners that fix the glass to the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long-winded process and you will need several tools to complete the task. These include latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers, a heat gun and a putty knife.

It's best to start at the top and work your way down when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will prevent getting any of the paint or sash's wood stuck to your tool. Also, if you end up removing a portion of the sash's wood, make sure you employ a chisel, or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper as this can cause damage.

Finally, when you're finished, be sure to remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. When it's smooth, you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and future damage.

You can make some quick fixes to repair cracks in a double-pane window. However, these solutions won't fix the problem and should only serve as an interim solution. Using a silicone caulk can help seal the gap, but you need to make sure that you use a top-quality caulk and follow proper 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 problem because it stops the insulating air or gas from being trapped between the two glass panes which means it cannot do its job effectively and can cause temperature fluctuations that cause condensation to form.

Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by an expert in double glazing. Your window repair professional will take off the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then the gasket is blown in to form an airtight seal and prevent condensation from occurring again. They'll also employ a drying agent to help dry out the area and prevent the condensation from happening again.

The other reason why you might notice a misty appearance between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the framework has moved slightly over time, which can break the all-important seal. This can be a serious problem, as your windows won't function correctly and lose their energy efficiency.

While it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed window however, it can be extremely expensive and is normally only necessary in the event of serious 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 time and the window is still in good condition, it might be possible to get repaired for free or at a lesser cost.

Review your warranty's terms prior to contacting the company to determine if they can resolve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You may find that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist to fix your double glazed windows and will usually be capable of doing it quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment!

Broken Locks & Handles

If your window handle is broken or difficult to open, it could be a major problem as it hinders you from using your windows. It could also give burglars the chance to gain entry into your home. There are a number of options to address this issue however the most effective option is to connect with an uPVC professional. They can repair the problem for you, or at the very least provide you with a replacement handle.

There are many types of window lock, but the most common one is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. They lock using bayonet-style rods, which can easily jam. If this occurs, the handle's nase is stuck in the popped out position and cannot be returned to the wedged locked position. This can be a difficult issue, but it can be resolved by following a few steps.

To fix the issue you'll need to remove the handle. This is simple enough with a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you will be in a position to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed, you may try to grab the bolts with a wrench or pair of pliers. If this doesn't work then you can place the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap may differ at the ends of the windows) and then make an "u" shape using your hands to grasp the bolts.

If you can manage to unblock the shoot bolts, then you can close the window by moving the handle to a closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is most likely damaged, so it will not open by 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

It is possible to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't operating properly. It could be that the window was opened too forcefully or the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a problem. It's simple to replace the hinge, so you don't have to buy new windows.

Take off the hinges. To do this, unscrew the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. After the hinges have been removed you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the proper 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 when it is closed and open. You'll also want to use wood filler to ensure that the hole left by the old hinge is filled completely and won't leak or become loose in the future.

Once you've replaced hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as is possible. After the paint has dried, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Regularly cleaning the track of friction and lubricating hinge mechanisms will ensure they last longer. You can also apply wood preservatives to shield them from the elements, which will help to stop corrosion and keep them looking good for as long as you can.


Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating, as it's more energy efficient than windows with only one glass. Like window glazier near me of your house windows will eventually require to be repaired or replaced. Our Preston experts can help you if you notice any signs that your double-glazed windows are not functioning properly.