The Most Common Repair Double Glazed Windows Mistake Every Beginner Makes

How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are several tell-tale 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 must be fixed as soon as is possible.

However, misting can also be an indication that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals can solve the issue, and stop draughts, leaks, or condensation.

Broken Panes

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

Take out any glass fragments that might remain in the frame. Don't forget to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection when doing this, as glass can be sharp. Check the floor for any loose pieces once the shards have been removed. It is also recommended to pull out any metal hooks holding the panes together.

Once the glass is removed then you can begin the process of removing the old compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass to the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. It's a lengthy procedure that requires some tools. This includes latex glazing putty; metal glazing points, pliers, a heat gun, and a putty knife.

It is best to start at the top and work your way downwards as you remove the old points and glazing compound. This will keep any paint or wood from the sash from sticking to your tool. If you need to remove some of the wood from the sash use the utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage.

After that you can sand the wood. Once the wood is smooth then you can seal it with clear or linseed wood sealer. This will protect it from future water damage.

You can use a few quick fixes to fix cracks in a double-pane window. However, these solutions are not a solution to repair the damage and should only be used as an interim solution. Using a silicone caulk can help seal the gap, but it is important to ensure that you choose a high-quality caulk and follow proper application techniques.

Condensation

If you notice any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing it means that your window seal has failed. This can be a problem because it stops the gas or air that is used to insulate from being trapped between the two panes of glass which means it cannot do its job effectively and will lead to temperature changes that cause condensation to form.

A double glazing specialist can easily fix this issue. To fix the problem your window company will remove the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing in a new gasket to make a strong and airtight seal to stop condensation from happening again. They'll also employ a drying agent to help dry out the area and stop the condensation from occurring again.

Another reason you may see a haze between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the framework has shifted over time, which can break the all-important seal.  repairing double glazing windows  can be a serious problem, as your windows won't function properly and lose their energy efficiency.

It is possible to replace a double-glazed window's glass, however, it can be costly and is usually only necessary in the event that the window is beyond repair. If you're experiencing problems with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period then you may be able to repair it for free or at lower cost.

Verify the warranty conditions prior to calling the company to find out whether they can fix the problem without replacing the whole window. Double-glazed windows typically come with an assurance of 10 to 20 years. You may find that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist to repair your double glazed windows and will usually be in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a less expensive alternative than purchasing and installing brand new double-glazed windows and it's also better for the environment too!

Broken Locks & Handles

If your window handle is damaged or difficult to open, it could be a major problem as it prevents you from using your windows. It could also give burglars an opportunity to break into your house. There are a few solutions to address the issue, but the best way is to speak with a uPVC expert. Based on the severity of the problem they are able to usually come and repair it for you or at 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 uPVC frames. These locks lock with bayonet-style rods, which can easily be jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it will not return to its wedged locked position. This can be a annoying issue, but it is able to be resolved by following a few easy steps.

To fix the issue, you'll have to remove the handle. This should be simple enough using the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you should then 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 attempt to grab the bolts for the shoot. If this is unsuccessful, you may need to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and window (the gap may be different at each end of the window) and make an "u" shape using your hands to try to grab the shoot bolts.

If you are able to remove the bolts that shoot, then you can close the window by adjusting the handle to the closed position. However, it won't be able to open again using the handle, since the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) will probably be faulty. You can replace 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 repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't operating properly. It could be that the window was opened too tightly, or that the hinge snapped. They could also have a defect. It's simple to fix the hinge, so you don't need to buy new windows.

First, you'll need to take off the hinges that are currently in place. This is done by removing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. After you've removed your hinges and replaced them with plywood boards that are cut to the right size. Make sure that 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. You'll also need to use wood filler to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is completely filled and will not leak or break in the future.

After you've replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll need to paint them. Be sure to employ a top-quality paint to ensure that it will last for as long as possible. After the paint has dried it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Cleaning the friction stay track and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will make them last longer. You can also use a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, which can help to keep them from corrosion and keep them looking good for as long as you can.

Having a double glazed window can help you save money on heating, as it is more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. As with any part of your home windows, they will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. If you're noticing any of the signs that your double glazed windows are struggling to operate it's worth having them examined by our experts in Preston.