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How to Repair Double Glazed Windows There are some telltale signs your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Draughts and water ingress are obvious signs of damage to the window frames. They must be fixed as quickly as possible. However, misting may be a sign that your window seals require replacement. Replacing double glazing repairers will solve the issue and stop condensation, draughts or leaks. Broken Panes Broken glass is one of the most frequent problems that double-glazed windows face. Double-pane windows are harder to break than single panes, but accidents can still happen. You will want to repair a broken glass as soon as you can. Get rid of any glass fragments that might remain in the frame. Be sure to wear eye protection and gloves when doing this, as glass can be very sharp. Be sure to check the floor for fragments that are not fixed after the shards have been removed. It is also an excellent idea to search for any hooks of metal that could be keeping the panes in place and take them out as well. Once the glass has been removed, you'll need to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass into the frame of the window) and replace them with new ones. It's a lengthy procedure that requires some tools. This includes latex glazing putty, metal glazing points, pliers, a heat gun; and a putty knife. It's best to start at the top and work your way down in removing the old points and glazing compound. This will prevent any wood or paint that is removed that is left in the sash from sticking to your tool. If you need to remove some of the wood from the sash, use an utility knife or chisel instead of chemical strippers which could cause damage. After you've finished make sure you sand any bare wood to smooth it. Once it's smooth, you can apply linseed oil or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and further damage. There are a few simple fixes you can attempt for a window that is cracked by a double-pane, but these methods are not a solution to the crack and should only be used as a temporary fix. The use of silicone caulk can aid in sealing the gap. However, it is important to use a high-quality caulk and the correct application methods. Condensation If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing it means that the window seal isn't working. This could be a problem because it blocks the gas or air that is used to insulate from getting trapped between the two glass panes which means it cannot do its job effectively and can cause temperature fluctuations which can cause condensation to form. Fortunately, the issue can be easily repaired by an expert in double glazing. The window company will take out both the window sash and window as well as the IGU (insulating unit) to correct the issue. Then, a new gasket is blown in to create an airtight seal, preventing condensation from occurring in the future. They will also employ drying agents to aid in drying the area out and prevent the condensation from happening again. You might also notice a the glass panes are a little cloudy in double-glazed windows if the frame has changed over time. This will crack the seal. This could be a problem since it means that your windows won't work correctly and will lose energy efficiency. Although it is possible to replace panes of a double-glazed Windows, this can be very expensive and is usually only necessary when there are serious issues with a window that is beyond repair. However, if you've spotted an issue with 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 have repaired for free or at a lower cost. It's a good idea to check the conditions of your warranty prior to you call the company to find out whether they can solve the issue without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically come with a guarantee of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company is able to repair the window instead of replacing it. If this is the case, then they'll likely send a specialist to fix your double glazed windows and will typically be capable of doing it quickly. This is a much less expensive alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better for the environment! Broken Locks & Handles It can be a big issue if the handle of your window is damaged, or it is difficult to open. You won't be able use your windows. It can also give burglars an opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are a few options to fix it but the best option is to contact an uPVC expert. Depending on the severity of the problem they are able to usually come and repair it for you, or at the very least, provide you with an alternative handle. There are many different types of window locks, but the most common is the Maco or Mila lock that is found on the majority of uPVC frames. They lock using rods in the form of bayonets that can easily become jammed. If this occurs, the handle's nose will be stuck in the popped out position, and won't be able to return to the locked position wedged. This can be a very frustrating problem, but it can be resolved by following a few easy steps. To fix the issue you'll have to remove the handle. This is simple enough with the help of a screwdriver. Once the handle is removed, you should then be able to see the screws that hold the lock to the frame. After the screws have been removed you can then make use of pliers or a wrench to attempt to grasp the bolts that hold the shoot. If this does not work then you can put the tool into the gap between the frame and the window (the gap could be different at each end of the windows) and create an “u” shape with your hand to grab the bolts. If you manage to unblock the shoot bolts, then you can close the window by adjusting the handle into the closed position. However, it won't be able to open again using the handle, as the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) is likely to be damaged. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts, which means that the window can be opened using the handle (and will still be secure) however, you'll have to purchase a new handle and gearbox. Broken Hinges If your uPVC window hinges aren't functioning properly and smoothly, you might need to repair or replace them. It could be that the window was opened too tightly or the hinge snapped. Or, they may have a flaw. It's easy to fix the hinge, so you don't have to purchase new windows. The first step is to remove the hinges currently installed. To do this, unscrew the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. Once you've removed the hinges, you can replace them with plywood boards cut to the correct size. The plywood should be more dense than the hinges that came with it to help support the weight of the window when it is closed and opened. You'll also want to fill the hole with wood to ensure that the hole left by the old hinge is filled to the brim and will not leak or break in the near future. After you've replaced the hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Use a quality paint to make sure it lasts as long as it can. Once the paint is dry, you can re-attach the window and tighten any loose screws. Window hinges also require regular maintenance. Cleaning regularly the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will help them last longer. You can also use wood preservatives to shield them from the elements, which will help to keep them from corrosion and keep them looking great 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 aspect of your home, windows can suffer from wear and tear and could require repair or replacement in time. Our Preston experts can help you if you notice any signs that your double-glazed windows are not working correctly.