How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

There are a few distinct indications that your double glazed windows require repair. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indicators of damage to frames of the windows. They must be fixed as quickly as possible.

Misting may also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the window seals will solve the issue and will stop leaks, draughts, or condensation.

Broken Panes

One of the most common problems with double-glazed windows is broken glass. Double pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane ones however, accidents can occur and you'll need to repair a broken window as soon as you can.

Remove any loose glass fragments that might be in the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves and eye protection when doing this, as glass can be sharp. Examine the floor for fragments that have fallen off after the shards are gone. It's also an excellent idea to remove any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together.

After the glass has been removed and the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old glass compound and glazing points (small fasteners that secure the glass to the frame of the window) and replacing them with new ones. This is a time-consuming procedure, and you'll need some tools to complete the task. These include latex glazing putty; metal glazing points; pliers; heat gun and a putty knife.

It is best to start at the top and work your way down in removing the old points and glazing compound. This will ensure that you don't end up getting any of the sash's paint or wood stuck to your tool. Also, if you do remove some of the sash's wood make sure you employ a chisel, or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper, since this could cause damage.

After you've finished, be sure to scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. When the wood is smooth, you can seal it with linseed or clear wood sealer. This will protect it from water and further damage.

There are a few simple fixes to fix cracked double pane windows. But these fixes will not repair the damage and should only serve as a temporary solution. Use of silicone caulk will help seal the gap. However, it is important to use a high-quality caulk and the correct application techniques.

Condensation

If you've noticed any moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it means that one of your windows is suffering from a failing seal. This could be a problem because it blocks the gas or air that is used to insulate from being trapped between the two panes of glass and therefore it can't perform its job correctly and this will lead to temperature changes that cause condensation to form.

A double glazing specialist can easily repair this problem. To fix the problem your window company will take off the window sash that is affected and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting in a new gasket to create a strong and airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They'll also use a special drying agent to help dry the area and prevent the condensation from occurring again.

Another reason you may see a haze between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the frame has moved over time, which causes cracks in the all-important seal. This can be a problem because it means your windows won't function properly and will lose their energy efficiency.

It is possible to replace double-glazed window's panes, but this can be expensive and is usually only required when the window is beyond repair. If you've noticed a fault in your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty time, then it may be possible to get the issue fixed for free or at a reduced cost.

Check your warranty terms before making contact with the company to determine whether they can solve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows are usually covered by guarantees of between 10 and 20 years, so you may find that they're able to repair the damaged window units rather than replacing them completely. If this is the case, they'll likely send a specialist out to fix your double glazed windows and will typically be capable of doing it quickly. This is a less expensive alternative than purchasing and installing brand new double-glazed windows and it's also more sustainable for the environment as well!

Broken Locks & Handles

If the handle on your window is damaged or difficult to open, it can be a major issue since it makes it impossible to use your windows. It could also give burglars a chance to break into your house. There are a variety of ways to fix it but the best option is to call a uPVC expert. Depending on the severity of the issue they are able to usually fix it for you or at least provide you with an alternative handle.

There are many different types of window locks, but the most well-known is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority of uPVC frames. These locks lock with bayonet-style rods, which can easily become jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it won't return to the wedged locked position. This can be a gruelling problem, but it can be solved with just a few steps.

To fix the problem you must first take off the handle, which is easy enough using a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you will be in a position to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. Once the screws are removed, you can try to grab the bolts using an awl or a pair of pliers. If this does not work then you can put 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 adjusting the handle to the closed position if in a position to release the shoot bolts. The gearbox (espag or espagnolette.) is probably faulty and won't open with the handle. It is possible to refit the gearbox without the shoot bolts, so the window can be opened using the handle (and is still secure) however, you'll have to purchase the new handle and gearbox.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are no working properly it is possible to replace or repair them. If this is because of the hinges being opened by too much force, the hinge snapping and dropping or they were defective to begin with, it can cause problems that make it difficult to use your window. It's easy to fix the hinge, so you don't have to purchase new windows.

First, you'll need to remove the existing hinges. To do this, loosen the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. After the hinges have been removed, you can replace the boards with plywood that has been cut to the correct size. Make sure the plywood is thicker than the original board to ensure it is able to support the weight of the window both shut and open. You'll also need to fill the hole with wood to ensure that the hole that was left by the hinge is filled completely and will not leak or loosen in the near future.

After you've replaced the hinges and filled in the holes, you'll need paint them. Make sure you use a high-quality paint to ensure that it lasts as long as is possible. After the paint has dried it is possible to attach the window again. Tighten any screws that are loose.

Regular maintenance is essential for window hinges. Regularly cleaning repair double glazing window and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will ensure they last longer. You can also use a wood preservative to shield them from the elements, helping to stop corrosion and keep them looking great for as long as you can.

Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows, and will save you money on heating. As with any part of your house windows, they will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. Our Preston experts can help you if there are indications that your double-glazed windows aren't functioning correctly.