How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few distinct indications that your double glazed windows require repair. Water infiltration or draughts that enter the frames are an obvious sign of damage to the window and will need to be repaired in the shortest time possible.

However, misting can also be a sign that your window seals are in need of replacing. 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. While double pane windows are much harder to break than single-pane ones however, accidents can occur and you’ll need to repair a broken window as quickly 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 while removing the glass because it is extremely sharp. Be sure to check the floor for fragments that are not fixed after the shards have been removed. Also, it’s an excellent idea to search for any hooks of metal that may be holding the panes together and pull these out as well.

Once the glass has been removed, you will have 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 requires several tools to complete the task. You will need latex glazing putty and metal glazing points, pliers a heatgun and a putty blade.

It’s best to begin at the top and work your way downwards as you remove the old points and glazing compound. This will stop any wood or paint that is left in the sash from sticking to your tool. If you need to remove some of the wood from the sash employ the utility knife or chipper instead of chemical strippers, which can cause damage.

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

There are a few simple solutions you can try to repair a damaged double-pane window However, these solutions won’t fix the crack and should be used only as a temporary fix. Using a silicone caulk can help seal the gap, but you need to ensure that you choose a high-quality caulk and follow proper application techniques.

Condensation

If you notice moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, this means that your window seal isn’t working. This could be a cause for concern because it prevents the insulating air or gas from being trapped between the two glass panes, so it won’t do its job effectively and can cause temperature fluctuations that cause condensation to form.

Fortunately, this can be easily repaired by an expert in double glazing. To fix the problem, your window contractor will take off the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before blowing in a new gasket. This will create a sturdy and airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They’ll also apply a specific drying agent to help dry out the area and stop the condensation from recurring.

You might also notice a mist between glass panes in double-glazed windows, in the event that the frame has moved over time. This can crack the seal. This can be a major issue as it means that your windows won’t work correctly and will lose energy efficiency.

Although it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed window however, it can be extremely expensive and is typically only necessary if there are severe issues with a window that is beyond repair. However, if you’ve discovered a fault in your double-glazed windows, and you’re still within the warranty period and the window is still in good condition, it might be possible to get the issue fixed for free or at least at a lesser cost.

It’s a good idea to check the terms of your warranty before you call the company to find out whether they can resolve the problem without having to replace the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company can repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they’ll likely send a specialist out to repair your double-glazed windows and will usually be in a position to complete the repair quickly. This is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing brand new double-glazed windows and is also better for the environment too!

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. It could also give burglars an opportunity to break into your house. There are a variety of ways to fix it but the best option is to contact a uPVC expert. They will be able to fix the issue for you, or offer you a new handle.

There are repairing double glazing windows of window locks. However, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks employ bayonet rods for locking and are very easy to seize up. The handle’s nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it is unable to return to the wedged locked position. This can be a gruelling problem, but can be resolved with a few easy steps.

To fix the problem you must first take off the handle, which is easy enough using the help of a screwdriver. After removing the handle you’ll be able to see the screws that attach the lock to frame. After the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts with a wrench or pair of pliers. If this fails it is possible to insert the tool into the gap between the frame and window (the gap may be different on each end of the window) and then make a “u” shape using your hands to try and grasp the bolts.

If you manage to remove the bolts for shooting, you can close the window by adjusting the handle to the closed position. However, it won’t open again with the handle because the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) will probably be faulty. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts which means that the window can be opened with the handle (and it will remain secure) however, you’ll need to order an entirely new handle and gearbox.

Broken Hinges

It is possible to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they’re not functioning smoothly. It could be due to them having been opened with too much force the hinge dropping and snapping or if they were defective in the first place, it can cause problems that make it difficult to use your window. It’s simple to fix the hinge, so you don’t have to purchase new windows.

Remove the hinges. To do this, loosen the screws that hold the frame to the hinges. After you’ve removed your hinges and replaced them with plywood boards that are cut to the right size. The plywood should be thicker than the original one to be able to withstand the weight when the window is opened and closed. It is also recommended to use wood filler to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is completely filled and won’t leak or become loose in the future.

After you’ve replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you’ll have to paint them. Use a quality paint to ensure it lasts as long as is possible. When the paint is dry it is possible to reattach the window and tighten any loose screws.

Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Cleaning regularly the friction stay track and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also use wood preservatives to shield them from the elements. This will stop rusting and keep them looking good for as long as you can.

Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows and can help you save money on heating. However, just like every other part of your home, windows are susceptible to wear and tear and could require repair or replacement as time passes. If you’re noticing any indications that your double-glazed windows aren’t working properly it’s worth having them checked by our experts in Preston.