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How to Repair Double Glazed Windows There are several tell-tale indicators that indicate that your double-glazed windows require repairs. Water ingress or draughts through the frames are a clear sign of damage to the window and will need to be fixed as soon as is possible. However, misting could be a sign that your window seals require replacing. Replacing the seals will solve the problem and prevent condensation, draughts or leaks. Broken Panes One of the most common issues a double-glazed window face is broken glass. Double pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane windows however, accidents can occur and you'll want to repair a damaged window as soon as you can. Get rid of any glass fragments that might remain in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves when you remove the glass because it could be extremely sharp. Check the floor for any loose pieces once the shards are gone. It's also a good idea for you to pull out any hooks made of metal that hold the panes together. After the glass has been removed, you'll need to remove the old glazing compound (small fasteners that hold the glass to the frame of the window), and replace them with new ones. It is a long-winded procedure and requires some tools to get the job done. This includes latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers; a heat gun and a putty knife. When you are removing the old glazing compound and points it is a good idea to start at the top of the sash, and work your way down. This will ensure that you don't end up getting any of the sash's wood or paint stuck to your tool. If you need to take off some of the wood from the sash, make use of an utility knife or Chisel instead of chemical strippers, which could cause damage. After you've finished make sure you remove any wood that is not sanded to smooth it. Once it is smooth, you can apply the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer to shield it from water and future damage. You can use a few quick fixes to repair cracked double pane windows. However, these methods will not repair the damage and should only serve as a temporary solution. The use of a silicone caulk may help to seal the gap, but you need to make sure that you choose a high-quality caulk and follow proper application methods. Condensation If you notice a haze of moisture or mist between your double glazing glass panes it is a sign that the window seal isn't working. This can be a problem because it stops the insulating air or gas from being trapped between the two panes of glass which means it cannot do its job effectively and can lead to temperature changes that cause condensation to form. A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. Your window contractor will remove both the window sash 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 again. They will also apply a drying agent to help the area dry out and stop the condensation from recurring. The other reason why you may notice mist between the glass panes of windows that are double-glazed is that the framework has shifted over time, which breaks the crucial seal. This can be a problem since it means that your windows will not function correctly and will lose their energy efficiency. While it is possible to replace the panes of a double-glazed Windows, this can be very expensive and is usually only necessary when there are serious issues with the window that are beyond repair. However, if you've discovered a fault in your double-glazed windows, and you're still within the warranty period it could be possible to have the issue fixed for free or at a lower cost. It's a good idea to check the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to determine whether they can resolve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows usually have an assurance of 10 to 20 years. You might find that the company can fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case they'll likely send a professional to fix your double-glazed windows. They usually can do this quickly. This is a cheaper 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 to open your windows. This also gives burglars an opportunity to gain entry into your home. There are a few solutions to address the issue however the most effective method is to speak with a uPVC expert. Depending on the severity of the issue they are able to usually fix it for you or at the very least, provide you with a replacement handle. There are many kinds of window locks but the most popular is the Maco or Mila locks that are commonly found on uPVC frames. These locks utilize bayonet-style rods to lock and these are very easy to seize up. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out state, and it won't return to the wedged lock position. This can be a annoying problem, but it can be solved by following a few steps. To fix the issue you'll need to take off the handle. This can be done easily enough using the help of a screwdriver. After you have removed the handle, you'll be able to view the screws that attach the lock to frame. Once the screws have been removed, you can try to grab the bolts with a wrench or pair of pliers. If this fails, you can insert the tool between the frame and the window (the gap may be different at each end of the windows) and then make an “u” shape with your hands to grasp the bolts. If you manage to remove the bolts that shoot, then you can close the window by adjusting the handle into the closed position. glaziers (espag or espagnolette.) is likely to be damaged, so it will not open with the handle. It is possible to replace the gearbox without the shoot bolts, so the window can be opened using the handle (and is still secure), but you will need to order the new handle and gearbox. Broken Hinges You may need to replace or repair your uPVC windows hinges if they aren't functioning smoothly. It could be that the window was opened too forcefully or the hinge snapped. They could also have a problem. Thankfully it is easy and quick, so there's no need to buy a new window instead, you can get your old windows repaired instead. The first step is to remove the hinges currently installed. This is done by unscrewing the screws that attach the hinges to the frame. After you've removed the hinges you can replace them with plywood boards cut to the right dimensions. The plywood should be thicker than the original one to be able to withstand the weight when the window is opened and closed. Use wood filler to ensure that the hole left behind by the old hinge will not leak or break. After you've re-installed the hinges and filled the holes, you'll need to paint them. Be sure to apply a high-quality paint to ensure it will last as long as is possible. Once the paint is dry it is possible to reconnect the window. Make sure you tighten any screws that are loose. Regular maintenance is also important for hinges on windows. Regularly cleaning the track of friction and lubricating the hinge mechanisms will ensure they last longer. You can also apply wood preservatives to shield them against the elements. This will help prevent rusting and keep them looking great for as long as you can. Double-glazed windows can help you reduce your heating bills, as it is more energy efficient than windows with only one glass. Like any other part of your home windows will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. If you're noticing any of the signs that your double-glazed windows aren't working properly, it's worth getting them looked at by our experts in Preston.