How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are certain indicators that tell you your double-glazed windows require to be repaired. Obviously, water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are an obvious indication of damage to your windows and will need to be repaired as soon as possible.

However, misting can also be a sign that your window seals are in need of replacing. Replacing the seals will fix the issue and stop condensation, draughts or leaks.

Broken Panes

One of the most frequent issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. 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.

Get rid of any glass fragments that could remain in the frame. Be sure to wear eye protection and gloves while doing this, since glass can be very sharp. Once the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for any other pieces that are loose. It is also an excellent idea to remove any hooks that hold the panes together.

After the glass has been removed, you'll need to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass to the window frame) and replace them with new ones. This is a time-consuming procedure, and you'll need several tools to get the job done. This includes latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points, pliers, a heat gun, and a putty knife.

When removing the old glaze compound and points, it's recommended to begin at the top of the sash and begin to work your way down. This will prevent getting any of the sash's paint or wood stuck to your tool. If you need to take off some of the wood from the sash, use a utility knife or a chipper instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage.


When you're done then sand the wood. Once it's smooth you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to safeguard it from future water damage.

There are a few simple fixes that you can try to repair a damaged double-pane window, but these methods will not repair the crack and should be used only as a temporary fix. A silicone caulk can aid in sealing the gap, but it is important to ensure that you choose a high-quality caulk and adhere to the correct application techniques.

Condensation

If you've noticed moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows is suffering from a failing seal. This can be a serious problem as it prevents the gas or air that acts as an insulation from being trapped between two panes.

Fortunately, the issue can be easily fixed by a double glazing expert. To resolve the issue your window company will take out the affected window sash and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing into a new gasket to make a strong and airtight seal that will stop condensation from happening again. They'll also employ a drying agent to aid in drying the area and stop the condensation from recurring.

There may be a mist between glass panes in a double-glazed windows when the frame has moved over time. This can crack the seal. This can be a major issue as it means that your windows will not function correctly and will lose their energy efficiency.

Although it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed Window but this can be quite expensive and is typically only necessary in the event of serious issues with a window that is beyond repair. If you're experiencing problems with your double-glazed window and are still within the warranty period, you may be able to get it repaired at no cost or at lower cost.

Review your warranty's terms prior to calling the company to find out whether they can fix 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 might find they're able to repair the defective window units instead of replacing them completely. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to fix your double glazed windows and are usually able to do so quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to buying and installing brand-new double glazed windows, and it's better for the environment!

Broken Locks & Handles

It can be a big issue if your window handle is broken, or if it is difficult to open. You will not be able use your windows. It can also give burglars an opportunity to break into your house. There are many ways to fix this, but the best option is to get in touch with an uPVC professional. They will be able to fix the issue for you, or at the very least provide you with a replacement handle.

There are a number of different types of window locks, but the most common is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority uPVC frames. These locks use bayonet style rods for locking and are able to easily seize up. emergency glaziers is stuck in the popped-out position, and it will not return to the wedged lock position. This can be a annoying issue, but it is able to be solved by following a few steps.

To resolve the issue, you'll need to remove the handle. This should be simple enough using a screwdriver. After removing the handle you'll be able to see the screws that secure the lock to frame. After the screws have been removed, you may try to grab the bolts with a wrench or pair of pliers. If this fails, you can insert 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 with your hands to grasp the bolts.

If you can manage to unblock the bolts that shoot, then you can shut your window by moving the handle to the closed position. But, it will not open again by the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) will probably be faulty. It is possible to repair the gearbox without the shoot bolts, which means that the window can be opened using the handle (and it will remain secure), but you will need to order an entirely new handle and gearbox.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are no working properly it is possible to repair or replace them. It could be because the window was opened too vigorously or the hinge snapped. They could also have a defect. Thankfully the replacement of the hinge is quick and easy and doesn't require you to purchase windows from scratch instead, you can get your old ones fixed instead.

First, you'll need to remove the hinges currently installed. To do this, unscrew the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. After the hinges are removed, you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the correct size. Make sure the plywood is thicker than the original board to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window both it is closed and open. It is also recommended to fill the hole with wood 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 re-installed hinges and filled the holes, you'll need to paint them. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as it can. After the paint has dried, you can reconnect the window. Make sure you tighten any screws that are loose.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can ensure they last longer by regularly cleaning the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives in order to shield them from the elements. This will stop corrosion and ensure they look great for as long as you can.

Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating costs, as it's more energy efficient than a single-glazed window. As with any part of your house windows, they will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. Our Preston experts are able to assist you if there are signs that the double-glazed windows you have aren't functioning correctly.