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How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

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

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

Broken Panes

One of the most frequent problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Although double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane windows however, accidents can occur and you’ll need to repair a damaged window as soon as you can.

Remove any loose glass fragments that might be in the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection when removing the glass, because it could 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 recommended to remove any metal hooks holding the panes together.

After the glass has been removed, you’ll need to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass into the window frame) and replace them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure, and you’ll need some tools to get the job done. You will require latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers 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 stop any wood or paint that is removed from the sash from sticking to the tool. If you have to take off some of the wood from the sash, use a utility knife or a Chisel instead of chemical strippers which can cause damage.

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

There are a few simple fixes that you can try for a cracked double-pane window, but these methods are not a solution to the crack and should only be used as a temporary fix. A silicone caulk can help to seal the gap, but it’s important to make sure that you use a top-quality caulk and adhere to the correct application techniques.

Condensation

If you’ve noticed water or mist between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows, it’s a sign that one of your windows is suffering from a failing seal. This can be a serious issue since it prevents insulating gas or air from being trapped between two panes.

A double glazing specialist can easily fix this issue. To correct the issue the window repair professional will take out the affected window sash and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing into a new gasket to create a strong and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from happening again. They’ll also use a special drying agent to aid in drying the area and prevent the condensation from happening again.

You might also notice a fog between glass panes in a double-glazed windows if the frame has moved over time. This can crack the seal. This can be a problem because it means your windows won’t work correctly and lose their energy efficiency.

While it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Windows but this can be quite expensive and is normally only needed when there are serious issues with the window that are beyond repair. If you have a problem with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period then you might be able to get it repaired at no cost or for lower cost.

It’s a good idea to check the terms of your warranty prior to you call the company to find out whether they can solve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. It is possible that the company is able to fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the situation, they will likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows. They usually can accomplish this in a short time. This is a much less expensive alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It’s also better on the environment!

Broken Locks & Handles

If the handle on your window is broken or difficult to open, it could be a major problem as it makes it impossible to use your windows. This can also give burglars the chance to gain entry into your home. There are a number of options to address this issue however the most effective option is to connect with an uPVC professional. Based on the severity of the problem they are able to usually fix it for you or at a minimum, give you a replacement handle.

There are several kinds of window locks but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks which are typically found on uPVC frames. These locks utilize bayonet-style rods for locking and are very easy to seize up. If this occurs, the handle’s nose will be stuck in the out position and will not go back into the locked position wedged. This can be a frustrating problem, but can be fixed by following a few simple steps.

To resolve the issue to fix the issue, you’ll need to first take off the handle, which is easy enough using the aid of a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you’ll be in a position to see the screws that secure the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts using an awl or a pair of pliers. If this fails then you can place the tool between the frame and the window (the gap may be different at the ends of the windows) and make an “u” shape using your fingers to grasp the bolts.

If you manage to free up the bolts for shooting, you can close the window by adjusting the handle into the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is likely to be damaged and won’t open when you pull the handle. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts, so the window can be opened using the handle (and it will remain secure) However, you’ll have to purchase the new handle and gearbox.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges aren’t working properly and smoothly, you might need to repair or replace them. It could be that the window was opened too forcefully, or that the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a problem. Fortunately it is simple and quick and there’s no need to purchase windows that are new instead, you can get your old windows repaired instead.

First, you’ll need remove the hinges currently installed. To do this, loosen the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. Once the hinges have been removed then you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the correct size. Make sure that the plywood you choose to use is larger than the original one so that it can withstand the weight of the window both it is closed and open. You’ll also need to fill the hole with wood to ensure that the hole created by the hinge is completely filled and will not leak or break in the near future.

After you’ve filled holes and replaced hinges, you’ll need to paint the doors. Use a quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as possible. When double glazing window repairs is dry and you are ready to re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can ensure they last longer by cleaning them regularly on the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply wood preservatives to shield them from the elements, helping to prevent rust and keep them looking great for as long as you can.

Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating costs, since it is more energy efficient than a single-glazed window. Like any other part 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 functioning properly, it’s worth getting them checked by our experts in Preston.