How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few telltale indicators that indicate that your double-glazed windows require repair. Water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are an obvious sign of damage to the window and will need to be fixed as soon as is possible.

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

Broken Panes

Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed windows confront. Double pane windows are less likely to break than single-pane windows however, accidents can happen and you will want to repair a damaged window as soon as is possible.

Get rid of any glass fragments that might be inside the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when removing the glass, because it could be extremely sharp. Examine double glazing window repair for fragments that are not fixed after the shards have been removed. It is also an excellent idea to pull out any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.

Once the glass has been removed, you'll have to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass into the frame of the window), and replace them with new ones. This can be a lengthy process and you will need some 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 begin at the top and work your way downwards in removing the old points and glazing compound. This will ensure that you don't end up getting any of the sash's paint or wood stuck to the tool. If you do end up removing a portion of the sash's wood ensure that you employ a chisel or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, as this can cause damage.

After you've finished ensure that you remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. When the wood is smooth you can seal it with clear wood sealer or linseed. This will shield it from water and further damage.

You can use a few simple solutions to repair cracked double pane windows. But these fixes are not a solution to repair the damage and should only serve as a temporary solution. Utilizing silicone caulk will aid in sealing the gap. However it is crucial to use caulk of high-quality and with the correct application methods.


Condensation

If you notice moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing it means that your window seal isn't working. This could be a problem because it prevents the gas or air that is used to insulate from getting trapped between the two glass panes which means it cannot do its job properly and this will lead to temperature changes which can cause condensation to form.

A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. Your window repair professional will take off both the window sash and window as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then the gasket will be blown into to create an airtight seal and prevent condensation from occurring again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to help dry the area and prevent the condensation from happening again.

There may be a fog between glass panes in double-glazed windows when the frame has moved over time. This could cause the seal to break. This can be a serious problem, as windows that are not functioning properly and lose their energy efficiency.

It is possible to replace double-glazed window's panes, but this can be expensive and is usually only required if the window is beyond repair. However, if you've discovered an issue with your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty period, then it may be possible to get it fixed for free or at least at a lower cost.

It's worth checking the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they are able to resolve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double glazed windows are typically covered by warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years, which means you might find they are able to repair defective window units instead of replacing them completely. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double glazed windows and are usually capable of doing it quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better on the environment!

Broken Locks & Handles

It could be a major 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 could also give burglars the chance to break into your house. There are several options to fix it but the best option is to contact a uPVC expert. They can repair the problem for you, or at the very least give you a replacement handle.

There are several types of window lock, but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks that are found on most uPVC frames. These locks are secured with bayonet-style rods, which can easily jam. If this occurs, the handle's nose will be stuck in the popped out position and cannot be returned to the wedged locked position. This can be a very annoying problem, but it can be resolved by following a few steps.

To resolve the issue you must first remove the handle, which should be done with the aid of a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you will be able see the screws that secure the lock to frame. Once the screws are removed you can then use a wrench or pliers to try to grab the bolts for the shoot. If this fails it is possible to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and the window (the gap could differ on the opposite side of the window) and make a "u" shape with your hand to try and grasp the bolts.

If you can manage to remove the bolts for shooting, you can shut your window by adjusting the handle to a closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is most likely damaged and won't open with the handle. You can replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts so that the window can still be opened by the handle.

Broken Hinges

You may need to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't operating smoothly. It could be that the window was opened too forcefully, or that the hinge snapped. They could also have a defect. Thankfully it is easy and quick and doesn't require you to purchase windows that are new - you can simply get your old ones fixed instead.

Remove the hinges. To do this, unscrew the screws that attach the frame to the hinges. After you've removed the hinges you can replace them with plywood boards cut to the correct 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. It is also recommended to use a wood filler to ensure that the hole created by the hinge is filled completely and will not leak or loosen in the near future.

After you've filled in the holes and put on the hinges, you will need to paint the doors. Be sure to employ a top-quality paint to ensure it will last for as long as possible. Once the paint is dry and you are able to reconnect the window. Secure any loose screws.

Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. You can make them last longer by regularly cleaning 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 prevent corrosion and ensure they look great for as long as you possibly can.

Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating costs, since it's more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. However, like any other aspect of your home, your windows can suffer from wear and tear and might require repair or replacement over time. If you're experiencing any indications that your double-glazed windows are struggling to operate, it's worth getting them checked by our experts in Preston.