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How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few telltale indicators that indicate that your double-glazed windows require repairs. Obviously, water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are a clear indication of damage to your windows and should be repaired as soon as is possible.

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

Broken Panes

Broken glass is among the most frequent issues that double-glazed windows have to face. Double-pane windows are less difficult to break than single panes, but accidents can still occur. You should repair a broken glass as soon as possible.

The first step is to get rid of any glass shards that are not completely removed that remain in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when you remove the glass as it can be very sharp. Once the shards are removed, look around the floor of your home for any extra pieces of glass that may be left. Also, it is recommended to search for any hooks made of metal that may be keeping the panes in place and take them out as well.

Once the glass has been removed, you will have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners which pin the glass to the window frame) and replace them with new ones. It is a long process that requires a few tools. You will require latex glazing putty and metal glazing points, pliers an electric heat gun, and a putty blade.

It’s best to start at the top and work your way downwards in removing the old points and glazing compound. This will prevent any wood or paint that is removed that is left in the sash from sticking to your tool. If you do remove some of the sash’s wooden pieces, ensure that you employ a chisel or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper because this could cause damage.

When you’re done you can sand the wood. Once it’s smooth, you can apply Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and further damage.

There are a few easy solutions you can try for a window that is cracked by a double-pane, but these methods won’t fix the crack and should only be used as a temporary fix. Using a silicone caulk can help to seal the gap, but you need to ensure that you use a high-quality caulk that is applied using the proper techniques.

Condensation

If you’ve noticed moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows has a broken seal. This could be a cause for concern because it blocks gas or the insulating air from being trapped between the two glass panes and therefore it can’t perform its job correctly and this can cause temperature fluctuations that result in condensation forming.

Fortunately, this issue can be easily repaired by an expert in double glazing. To correct 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 prevent condensation from happening again. They will also use drying agents to help the area dry out and stop the condensation from happening again.

Another reason you might notice a misty appearance between the glass panes of windows with double glazing is because the framework has moved slightly over time, which causes cracks in the crucial seal. This can be a serious issue as your windows won’t function correctly and lose their energy efficiency.

While it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed window but this can be quite expensive and is usually only required in the event of serious problems with the window that are beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed window and are still within the warranty period, you might be able get it repaired at no cost or at a reduced price.

Review your warranty’s terms prior to contacting the company to determine if they can resolve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have a guarantee of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company can fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case you’re in, they’ll send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows. They usually can accomplish this in a short time. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It’s also better for the environment!

Broken Locks & Handles

It can be a big issue if the handle of your window is damaged or broken, or if it is difficult to open. You will not be able to open your windows. It can also give burglars an opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are a number of solutions to this problem however the most effective option is to connect with a uPVC professional. Based on the severity of the issue, they can usually fix it for you, or at least provide you with an alternative handle.

There are a number of different kinds of window locks, however the most popular is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority uPVC frames. They lock using bayonet-style rods, which can easily be jammed. The handle’s nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it will not return to the wedged lock position. This could be a frustrating issue, but it is able to be resolved by following a few steps.

To resolve the issue, you’ll need to remove the handle. This should be simple enough with a screwdriver. After removing the handle, you’ll be able to see the screws that hold the lock to frame. Once the screws are removed, you can attempt to grab the bolts with the help of a wrench or a pair pliers. If this doesn’t work then you can place the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap could be different between the two windows) and then make an “u” shape with your fingers to grasp the bolts.

If you can manage to remove the bolts for shooting, you can close the window by adjusting the handle to the closed position. But it won’t be able to open again by the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is most likely to be defective. double glazing repairers is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts, thus the window will be opened by the handle (and is still secure) however, you’ll require a new handle and gearbox.

Broken Hinges

You may need to repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they’re not operating smoothly. If this is because of them being opened with too much force the hinge dropping and snapping or if they were defective at the beginning and it causes problems that make using your window difficult. It’s easy to repair the hinge so you don’t have to purchase new windows.

Take off the hinges. To do this, loosen the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. After you’ve removed your hinges and replaced them with plywood boards that are cut to the right size. Make sure the plywood is larger than the original one to ensure it can support the weight of the window both open and closed. You’ll also want to fill the hole with wood to ensure that the hole left by the old hinge is filled to the brim and will not leak or break in the future.

After you’ve filled in the holes and replaced hinges, you’ll require painting the doors. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. After the paint has dried and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Regular maintenance is also essential for window hinges. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, which will help to prevent rust and keep them looking great for as long as is possible.

Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating costs, as it’s more energy efficient than windows with a single glazing. Like every other component of your house windows will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. If you’re noticing any indications that your double-glazed windows aren’t working properly, it’s worth getting them looked at by our experts in Preston.