How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are some telltale signs your double-glazed windows must be repaired. Evidently, water ingress or draughts through the frames are an obvious sign of damage to the window and should be fixed as soon as possible.
Misting can also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the issue and stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
One of the most frequent problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Double-pane windows are less difficult to break than single panes, however accidents can still happen. You should repair the broken glass as soon as you can.
The first step to take is to get rid of any glass shards that are not completely removed that are still in the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when doing this, as glass can be extremely sharp. Once the shards have been removed, check the floor of your home for any other pieces that are loose. Also, it's an excellent idea to look for any metal hooks that may be holding the panes in place and pull these out too.
After the glass is removed then you can begin the process of removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass to the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. It is a long process that requires some tools. These include latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers; a heat gun, and a putty knife.
When you are removing the old glazing compound and points, it's a good idea to start at the top of the sash and begin to work your way down. This will ensure that you don't end up getting any of the sash's paint or wood stuck to your tool. If you have to take off some of the wood from the sash, make use of a utility knife or a chipper instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage.
Finally, when you're finished ensure that you sand any bare wood to smooth it. Once it's smooth then you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to shield it from future water damage.
You can use a few simple solutions to repair cracks in a double-pane window. However, these methods are not a solution to repair the damage and should be used as an interim solution. The use of silicone caulk can aid in sealing the gap. However it is crucial 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 glazing, it's a sign 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 is used to insulate getting trapped between the two panes.
Fortunately, this can be fixed by an expert in double glazing. Your window repair professional will take off both the window sash and window as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to address the issue. Then the gasket will be blown into to form an airtight seal, preventing condensation from happening again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to help dry out the area and prevent the condensation from recurring.
You might also notice a fog between glass panes in a double-glazed windows in the event that the frame has moved over time. This could cause the seal to break. double glazing repair near me could be a major issue as your windows will not work correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
It is possible to replace a double-glazed window's panes, but this can be expensive and is typically only needed when the window is beyond repair. If you've noticed a fault in your double-glazed windows and you're still within the warranty period it could be possible to get it fixed for free or at least at a reduced cost.
Review your warranty's terms prior to calling the company to find out if they can resolve the problem without replacing the whole window. Double-glazed windows typically come with a guarantee of 10 to 20 years. It is possible that the company can fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows and will usually be in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing brand new double glazed windows, and it's better for the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
If your window handle is broken or difficult to open, it can be a major problem as it prevents you from using your windows. It can also give burglars a chance to break into your house. There are several solutions to this problem, but the best option is to speak with a uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the issue, they can usually fix it for you, or at the very least, provide you with a new handle.
There are many different types of window locks, however the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks are secured with rods that resemble bayonets, which could easily be jammed. If this occurs, the handle's nase will remain in the popped out position and won't be able to return to the wedged locked position. This could be a frustrating issue, but it can be fixed by following a few simple steps.
To fix the issue, you'll need to take off the handle. This should be simple enough using the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you'll be able to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed and the handle is removed, you can make use of pliers or a wrench to try and grab the shoot bolts. If this fails then you can place the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap may differ at each end of the windows) and then make an "u" shape using your fingers to grasp the bolts.
If you can manage to remove the bolts that shoot, then you can close your window by moving the handle to a closed position. However, it won't open again by the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) will probably be faulty. It is possible to refit the gearbox without the shoot bolts, which means that the window can be opened using the handle (and will still be secure) however, you'll have to purchase the new handle and gearbox.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are no functioning properly and smoothly, you might need to replace or repair them. It could be due to them being opened by too much force, the hinge dropping and snapping or if they were defective in the first place the issue could cause issues that make using your window difficult. Thankfully the replacement of the hinge is simple and quick and there's no need to purchase windows from scratch - you can simply get your old windows repaired instead.
The first step is to remove the existing hinges. This is done by removing the screws that hold the hinges to the frame. After the hinges are removed you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the proper size. Make sure the plywood is more robust than the original board to ensure it can support the weight of the window when shut and open. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left by the old hinge will not leak or become loose.
Once you've replaced hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Use a quality paint to make sure it lasts as long as it can. Once the paint is dry, you can reconnect the window. Secure any loose screws.
Regular maintenance is essential for window hinges. Cleaning the friction stay track 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 prevent rust and keep them looking good for as long as possible.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows, and will save you money on heating. However, like any other aspect of your home, windows are susceptible to wear and tear and might require replacement or repair over time. If you're experiencing any indications that your double glazed windows aren't functioning properly, it's worth getting them checked by our experts in Preston.