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How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few telltale indications that your double glazed windows require repairs. Water ingress and draughts are clear indications of damage to the frames of the windows. They should be repaired as soon as is possible.

The misting could also mean that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals will solve the issue, and will stop leaks, draughts or condensation.

Broken Panes

Broken glass is among the most common problems that double-glazed windows face. Double-pane windows are harder to break than single panes, yet accidents can still occur. You should repair the damaged glass as quickly as you can.

The first step to take is to take out any loose shards of glass that are still in the frame. Don’t forget 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. It’s also an excellent idea to remove any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.

After the glass has been removed, you will have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass to the window frame) and replace them with new ones. This is a time-consuming procedure, and you’ll need some tools to get the job done. You will need latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers a heatgun and a putty blade.

It’s best to start at the top and work your way down when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will keep any paint or wood that is left in the sash from sticking to the tool. If you have to take off some of the wood from the sash, employ the utility knife or chisel instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage.

After you’re done then sand the wood. When the wood is smooth then you can seal it using clear or linseed wood sealer. This will help protect it from future water damage.

There are a few simple fixes to repair cracked double pane windows. However, these methods are not a solution to repair the damage and should only serve as an interim solution. Use of silicone caulk will help seal the gap. However, it is important 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 has failed. This can be a serious issue as it stops the insulating gas or air from being trapped between two panes.

A double glazing expert can easily fix this issue. The window company will take out both the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then, a new gasket will be blown in to form an airtight seal, preventing condensation from occurring again. They’ll also use a special drying agent to aid in drying the area and prevent the condensation from recurring.

You might also notice a mist between glass panes in a double-glazed windows in the event that the frame has moved over time. This can crack the seal. This could be a problem as it means that your windows will not function correctly and will lose energy efficiency.

It is possible to replace double-glazed window’s panes, however, it can be costly and is typically only needed if the window is beyond repair. However, if you’ve spotted the signs of a problem with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period it could be possible to have repaired for free or at a lower cost.

Review your warranty’s terms prior to contacting the company to determine whether they can solve the issue without replacing the whole window. Double-glazed windows typically come with warranties of between 10 and 20 years. It is possible that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case they’ll likely send a professional to fix your double-glazed windows. They usually can complete the task quickly. This is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new double-glazed windows, and it’s better for the environment!

Broken Locks & Handles

When your window handle is damaged or difficult to open, it could be a huge issue as it makes it impossible to use your windows. This also gives burglars an opportunity to break into your home. There are a variety of solutions to address the issue however the most effective method is to contact an uPVC expert. They can fix the issue for you, or at least provide you with a replacement handle.

There are many types of window lock, however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. These locks lock with rods that resemble bayonets, which could easily be jammed. The handle’s nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it won’t return to the wedged lock position. This can be a gruelling issue, but it can be solved with a few easy steps.

To fix the issue you’ll have to remove the handle. This is simple enough with a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you’ll be able to see the screws that attach the lock to frame. Once the screws have been removed and the handle is removed, you can employ pliers or a wrench to try to grab the shoot bolts. If this does not work then you can place the tool between the frame and the window (the gap could be different between the two windows) and then make an “u” shape using your hands to grasp the bolts.

If you are able to unblock the shoot bolts, then you can close the window by adjusting the handle into the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is probably faulty and will not open when you pull the handle. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts which means that the window can be opened with the handle (and it will remain secure), but you will have to purchase an entirely new handle and gearbox.

Broken Hinges

It could be necessary to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they’re not operating properly. It could be due to them being opened by too much force, the hinge snapping and dropping or they were defective in the first place, it can cause problems that make it difficult to use your window. It’s easy to fix the hinge, so you don’t have to purchase new windows.

Remove the hinges. This is done by removing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. Once you’ve removed the hinges you can replace them with plywood boards that are cut to the correct size. Make sure that the plywood is larger than the original one to ensure it can support the weight of the window both open and closed. It is also recommended to fill the hole with wood to ensure that the hole created by the hinge is filled completely and will not leak or loosen in the future.

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

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Regularly cleaning the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also apply a wood preservative to protect them from the elements, which will help to stop 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, just like every other part of your home, windows can suffer from wear and tear and may require repair or replacement over time. If double glazing repair experiencing any indications that your double glazed windows aren’t functioning properly, it’s worth getting them examined by our experts in Preston.