What The 10 Most Stupid Repair Double Glazed Windows Fails Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented

How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are certain indicators that tell you your double-glazed windows require to be repaired. Evidently, water ingress or draughts leaking through the frames are an obvious indication of window damage and should be repaired as soon as is possible.

However, misting could be an indication that your window seals require replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the issue and will stop condensation, draughts or leaks.

Broken Panes

Broken glass is one of the most frequent issues that double-glazed windows have to face. Although double-pane windows are much harder to break than single-pane ones however, accidents can occur and you'll want to repair a damaged window as soon as you can.

The first step is to remove any glass shards that are not completely removed that remain in the frame. Don't forget to wear eye protection and gloves when doing this, as glass can be extremely sharp. After the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for any additional loose pieces. It is also a good idea to look for any hooks of metal that may be holding the panes in place and take them out also.

Once the glass has been removed, you'll have to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass to the frame of the window), and replace them with new ones. This is a time-consuming process and you will need a few tools to complete the task. This includes latex glazing putty; metal glazing points; pliers; heat gun and a putty knife.

When removing the old glazing compound and points, it's a good idea to start at the top of the sash and begin to work your way down.  double glazing repairers  will keep any wood or paint that is left in the sash from sticking to the tool. If you do end up removing a portion of the sash's wood ensure that you use a chisel or utility knife instead of a chemical stripper as this can cause damage.

When you're done make sure you remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. When the wood is smooth you can seal it with clear wood sealer or linseed. This will shield it from future water damage.

You can make a few quick fixes to repair a cracked double pane window. However, these methods won't fix the problem and should only serve as an interim solution. A silicone caulk can help seal the gap, but it is important to ensure that you choose a high-quality caulk and adhere to the correct application methods.

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 could be a significant problem as it prevents the gas or air that is used to insulate getting trapped between the two panes.

Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by an expert in double glazing. To fix the problem your window company will remove the affected window sash as well as the IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing into a new gasket to create a strong and airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to help dry the area and prevent the condensation from occurring again.

The other reason why you may see a haze between the glass panes of windows with double glazing is because the framework has shifted over time, which breaks the all-important seal. This can be a huge issue, since your windows won't function properly and lose their energy efficiency.

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

It's a good idea to check the conditions of your warranty prior to you contact the company to determine whether they can resolve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double glazed windows are generally covered by warranties of between 10 and 20 years, so you might find that they are able to repair defective window units instead of replacing them completely. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist to repair your double-glazed windows and will typically be capable of doing it quickly. This is a cheaper option than buying and installing brand-new double glazed windows and it's also more sustainable for the environment as well!

Broken Locks & Handles

If your window handle is damaged or difficult to open, it could be a huge issue as it makes it impossible to use your windows. It also gives burglars an opportunity to break into your house. There are several ways to fix this but the most effective solution is to speak with a uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the issue they are able to usually come and repair it for you, or at a minimum, give you an alternative handle.

There are many kinds of window locks however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. They lock using rods in the form of bayonets that can easily jam. If this occurs, the handle's nase is stuck in the out position and will not go back into the locked position wedged. This can be a frustrating problem, but it can be solved with just a few steps.

To resolve the issue, you'll need to remove the handle. This can be done easily enough using the help of a screwdriver. After the handle is removed, you should then be in a position to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed, you may try to grab the bolts using a wrench or pair of pliers. If this doesn't work it is possible to insert the tool through the gap between the frame and the window (the gap can be different on each end of the window) and make an "u" shape with your hands to try and grab the shoot bolts.

You can close your window by adjusting the handle to the closed position if you are in a position to release the bolts that shoot. But it won't be able to be able to open again using the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. You can replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts so that the window will still be opened with the handle.

Broken Hinges

It could be necessary to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't functioning smoothly. Whether this is due to the hinges being opened by too much force, the hinge snapping or dropping or if they were defective in the first place and it causes problems that make it difficult to use your window. It's simple to fix the hinge, so you don't need to purchase new windows.

Remove the hinges. To do this, remove the screws that attach the frame to the hinges. After the hinges are removed you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the proper size. Make sure that the plywood is thicker than the original board to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window when shut and open. Use wood filler to make sure the hole left behind by the hinges of the past does not leak or loosen.

After you've filled in the holes and put on the hinges, then you'll need to paint the doors. Make sure to apply a high-quality paint to ensure that it will last as long as is possible. After the paint has dried it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, which can help to stop corrosion and keep them looking good for as long as is possible.

Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows, and will save you money on heating. However, like any other component of your home, windows are susceptible to wear and tear and may need repairing or replacing over time. Our Preston experts can assist you if you observe any indications that your double-glazed windows aren't working correctly.