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How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are certain indicators that tell you your double-glazed windows require to be fixed. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indications of damage to the window frames. They should be repaired as soon as is possible.

Misting may also indicate that your window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing your window seals will solve the problem, 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 more difficult to break than single panes, but accidents do occur. double glazing windows repair should repair the broken glass as soon as you can.

The first step is to take out any loose shards of glass that remain in the frame. Be sure to wear eye protection and gloves while doing this, since glass can be sharp. After the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for any extra pieces of glass that may be left. Also, it’s a good idea to look for any hooks of metal that might be holding the panes in place and remove them as well.

After the glass has been removed, you’ll have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass in the window frame) and replace them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure, and you’ll need several tools to complete the task. You will need latex glazing putty and metal glazing points, pliers heat gun and a putty blade.

When removing the old glazing compound and points it is a good idea to start at the top of the sash, and work your way down. 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 some of the sash’s wood, make sure you use a chisel or utility knife instead of a chemical stripper as this can cause damage.

After you’ve finished make sure you sand any bare wood to smooth it. Once it is smooth you can apply Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to protect it from future water damage.

There are a few simple fixes that you can try for a cracked double-pane window however, these methods will not repair the crack and should only be used as a temporary measure. A silicone caulk can help seal the gap, but you need to ensure that you use a top-quality caulk and follow proper application techniques.

Condensation

If you’ve noticed moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it’s a sign that one of your windows is suffering from a failing seal. This could be a major issue as it stops the gas or air that is used to insulate being trapped between two panes.

A double glazing expert can fix this issue easily. To correct the issue your window company will remove the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing into a new gasket to make a strong and airtight seal that will prevent condensation from occurring again. They’ll also apply a specific drying agent to help dry out the area and prevent the condensation from happening again.

The other reason why you might notice a misty appearance between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the frame has moved over time, which causes cracks in the crucial seal. This could be a major issue as windows that are not functioning effectively and lose energy efficiency.

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

It is worth checking the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to see whether they are able to solve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. You may find that the company can fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they’ll likely send a specialist out to repair your double glazed windows and will usually be capable of doing it quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing brand new double glazed windows and it’s also more sustainable for the environment as well!

Broken Locks & Handles

When your window handle is broken or hard to open, it can be a major issue since it makes it impossible to use your windows. This also gives burglars an opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are a variety of solutions to address the issue but the best option is to contact a uPVC expert. They can fix the issue for you, or at least give you a replacement handle.

There are a few different kinds of window locks, but the most common one is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. These locks utilize bayonet-style rods to lock, and they can easily seize up. If this happens, the handle’s nose will remain in the popped out position and won’t be able to return to the wedged locked position. This can be a annoying issue, but it can be solved by following a few easy steps.

To fix the issue you’ll need to remove the handle. This should be simple enough using a screwdriver. Once the handle has been removed, you will be able to see the screws that secure the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed, you can employ pliers or a wrench to try to grab the bolts for the shoot. If this doesn’t work, you can insert the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap may be different at each end of the windows) and then make an “u” shape using your fingers to grasp the bolts.

You can shut your window by moving the handle back to its closed position if you are in a position to release the bolts that shoot. The gearbox (espag, espagnolette, etc.) is probably faulty, so it will not open by the handle. You can refit the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts, so that the window can be opened with the handle.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges aren’t functioning properly, you may need to repair or replace them. If this is because of them having been opened by too much force, the hinge snapping and dropping or they were defective at the beginning the issue could cause issues that make it difficult to use your window. Thankfully the replacement of the hinge is quick and easy, so there’s no need to buy a new window and you can have your old ones fixed instead.

The first step is to remove the hinges currently installed. To do this, unscrew the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. After you’ve removed your hinges and replaced them with plywood boards cut to the correct size. Make sure that the plywood is larger than the original one to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window when shut and open. You’ll also need to fill the hole with wood to ensure that the hole left by the old hinge is filled completely and won’t leak or become loose in the near future.

After you’ve filled holes and replaced the hinges, you will require painting the doors. Be sure to use a high-quality paint to ensure it will last for as long as is possible. Once the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can help them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the tracks of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives in order to shield them against the elements. This will stop corrosion and ensure they look great for as long as you possibly can.

Having a double glazed window can help you save money on heating, because it is more energy efficient than windows with only one glass. Like any other part of your house, your windows will eventually require to be replaced or repaired. Our Preston experts can assist you if you observe any indications that the double-glazed windows you have aren’t working correctly.