Repair Double Glazed Windows: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are several tell-tale signs that your double glazed windows need repair. Draughts and water ingress are obvious signs of damage to the frames of your windows. They must be fixed as soon as is possible.

However, misting can also be an indication that your window seals need replacement. Replacing the seals will fix the problem and prevent condensation, draughts or leaks.


Broken Panes

One of the most common issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Although double-pane windows are less likely to break than single pane windows, accidents do occur and you'll want to repair a damaged window as soon as you can.

Remove any loose glass fragments that could be in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when removing the glass, because it could be extremely sharp. Once the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for other pieces that are loose. It's also recommended to remove any hooks that hold the panes together.

Once the glass is removed, you will have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners that fix the glass into the frame of the window) and replace them with new ones. It's a lengthy process that requires a few tools. You will need latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers heat gun and a putty blade.

When removing the old glazing compound and points it is recommended to begin at the top of the sash, and work your way down. This will help you avoid getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to the tool. If you need to remove some of the wood from the sash use the utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers which can cause damage.

When you're done, be sure to remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. Once the wood is smooth then you can seal it using clear or linseed wood sealer. This will protect it from water and further damage.

There are a few quick fixes you can attempt to repair a damaged double-pane window However, these solutions are not a solution to the crack and should be used only as a temporary fix. The use of a silicone caulk may help seal the gap, but it's important to ensure that you choose a high-quality caulk and adhere to the correct application methods.

Condensation

If you notice moisture or mist between your double glazing glass panes it is a sign that your window seal has failed. This could be a cause for concern because it prevents gas or the insulating air from getting trapped between the two panes of glass and therefore it can't perform its job effectively and can cause temperature fluctuations which can cause condensation to form.

Fortunately, this issue can be easily fixed by a double glazing expert. Your window contractor will remove both the window sash as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to fix the problem. Then, a new gasket will be blown in to create an airtight seal and prevent condensation from happening again. They will also apply drying agents to aid in drying the area out and stop the condensation from recurring.

Another reason you may see a haze between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the framework has moved slightly over time, which causes cracks in the all-important seal. This can be a problem as it means that your windows will not function correctly and lose their energy efficiency.

Although it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed window however, it can be extremely expensive and is normally only needed if there are severe issues with the window that are beyond repair. If you have a problem with your double-glazed window but are still in the warranty period, you might be able to get it repaired for free or at a reduced price.

Verify the warranty conditions prior to contacting the company to determine whether they can solve the issue without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows are usually covered by warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years, which means you might find they're able to repair the faulty window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the situation, they will likely send a professional to fix your double-glazed windows. They're able to complete the task quickly. This is a much less expensive alternative to buying and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better on the environment!

Broken Locks & Handles

It could be a major issue if your window handle is broken, or if it is difficult to open. repair double glazing windows will not be able use your windows. It could also give burglars a chance to break into your home. There are a variety of ways to fix it, but the best way is to speak with a uPVC expert. They can fix the issue for you, or at the very least offer you a new 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 are secured with rods in the form of bayonets that can easily become 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 can be fixed with just a few steps.

To fix the problem to fix the issue, you'll need to first remove the handle. This should be done with the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle you will be able see the screws that secure the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts with an awl or a pair of pliers. If this is unsuccessful then you might need to insert the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap can be different at each end of the window) and create a "u" shape with your hand to attempt to grab the shoot bolts.

If you can manage to unblock the shoot bolts, then you can shut your window by moving the handle into the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is likely to be damaged and will not open by the handle. It is possible to replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts, so that the window can still be opened by the handle.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges aren't longer operating smoothly, you may need to replace or repair them. It could be due to them having been opened with too much force, the hinge snapping and dropping or they were defective in the first place, it can cause problems that make using your window difficult. Luckily it is easy and quick, so there's no need to purchase windows that are new instead, you can get the old ones repaired instead.

Take off the hinges. This is done by unscrewing the screws that secure the hinges to the frame. 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 is more robust than the original board so that it can withstand the weight of the window both open and closed. You'll also need to use a wood filler to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is filled to the brim and won't leak or become loose in the near future.

Once you've replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll need to paint them. Make sure to employ a top-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as it can. Once the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window. Secure any screws that are loose.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Cleaning regularly the track of friction and lubricating hinge mechanisms will ensure they last longer. You can also apply wood preservatives in order to shield them against the elements. This will stop rusting and keep them looking good for as long as you possibly can.

Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows, and will save you money on heating. However, just like every other component of your home, your windows will show wear and tear and might require repair or replacement in time. Our Preston experts can help you if you notice any indications that the double-glazed windows you have aren't working correctly.