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How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few telltale signs that your double glazed windows require repairs. Water ingress or draughts through the frames are an obvious indication of damage to your windows and should be fixed as soon as possible.

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

Broken Panes

Broken glass is one of the most frequent problems that double-glazed windows have to face. Although double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane windows however, accidents can occur and you'll need to fix a broken window as soon as you can.

Get rid of any glass fragments that may still be inside the frame. Wear gloves and eye protection while removing the glass because it could be extremely sharp. After the shards have been removed, check the floor of your home for other pieces that are loose. Also, it is an excellent idea to search for any metal hooks that could be holding the panes together and take them out as well.

Once the glass is removed, you will have to take off the old glazing compound (small fasteners which pin the glass to the frame of the window) and replace them with new ones. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you'll need some tools to complete the task. This includes latex glazing putty; metallic glazing points; pliers; heat gun, and a putty knife.

It's best to start at the top and work your way down when removing the old points and glazing compound. This will ensure that you don't end up 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 a utility knife or a chisel instead of chemical strippers, which can cause damage.

When you're done make sure you remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. When it's smooth you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to protect it from water and future damage.

You can use 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. Utilizing silicone caulk will help to seal the gap. However  blown double glazing repair  is crucial to use high-quality caulk with the correct application methods.

Condensation

If you notice any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing it is a sign that your window seal has failed. This could be a major problem as it prevents the insulating gas or air from being trapped between two panes.

A double glazing specialist can easily fix this issue. Your window contractor will remove both the window sash and window as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to correct the issue. Then a new gasket will be blown into to form an airtight seal to prevent condensation from occurring in the future. They will also employ a drying agent to aid in drying the area out and prevent the condensation from recurring.

Another reason you may notice mist 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 problem since it means that your windows won't work correctly and will lose energy efficiency.

While it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed window but this can be quite expensive and is normally only required if there are severe issues with a window that is beyond repair. If you're experiencing problems with your double-glazed window and are still in the warranty period, you might be able to get it repaired at no cost or for lower cost.

Verify the warranty conditions prior to contacting the company to determine if they can resolve the issue without replacing the whole window. Double glazed windows are generally covered by guarantees of between 10 to 20 years, which means you might find that they are able to repair damaged window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to repair your double glazed windows and will typically be able to do so quickly. This is a much cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand-new double glazed windows, and it's better for the environment too!

Broken Locks & Handles

It can be a big issue if your window handle is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You won't be able use your windows. It can also give burglars the chance to gain entry into your home. There are several ways to fix this but the most effective solution is to get in touch with a uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the problem they will usually be able to come and repair it for you, or at a minimum, give you an alternative handle.

There are a number of different types of window locks, but the most common is the Maco or Mila lock that can be found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks use bayonet style rods to lock and these are very easy to seize up. If this occurs, the handle's nase is stuck in the popped out position and cannot be returned to the wedged locked position. This can be a very difficult issue, but it can be fixed by following a few steps.

To fix the problem, you will need to first take off the handle, which should be easy enough with the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you will be aware of the screws that secure the lock to the frame. Once the screws have been removed and the handle is removed, you can use a wrench or pliers to try and grab the bolts for the shoot. If this fails, you may need to insert the tool into the gap between the frame and window (the gap could be different on each end of the window) and make a "u" shape with your hands to attempt to grasp the bolts.

If you can manage to remove the bolts for shooting, you can close the window by moving the handle to the closed position. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is probably faulty and will not open with the handle. You can refit 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 repair or replace your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't operating properly. It could be because the window was opened too forcefully, or that the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a problem. Thankfully the replacement of the hinge is quick and easy, so there's no need to purchase a new window and you can have your old windows repaired instead.

First, you'll need remove the hinges currently installed. This is done by unscrewing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. After the hinges have been removed then you can replace the boards using plywood that has been cut to the proper size. Make sure that the plywood you choose to use is larger than the original one to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window both it is closed and open. It is also recommended to use wood filler to ensure that the hole created by the hinge is filled completely and will not leak or loosen in the near future.

After you've filled in the holes and replaced the hinges, then you'll require painting the doors. Use a good paint to ensure it lasts as long as is possible. Once the paint has dried it is possible to reconnect the window. Secure any screws that are loose.

Regular maintenance is also important for window hinges. You can make them last longer by regularly cleaning the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also use wood preservatives to shield them from the elements. This will stop corrosion and keep them looking good for as long as you possibly can.

Having a double glazed window can help you save money on heating costs, because it's more energy efficient than windows with only one glass. Like any other part of your home windows will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. Our Preston experts can help you if there are signs that your double-glazed windows are not working properly.