UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be fixed. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.
Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can also be less expensive than a brand new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major issue. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience as well as the right equipment to get the best results. This will ensure that your shattered window is fixed before it gets worse and you don't have to replace the window glass or window unit.
There are a variety of home solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For deeper cracks, tape may require to be extended on both sides.
You can also use two-part epoxy to repair broken or cracked glasses. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be purchased for window Repairs around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the equipment needed to complete the task.
If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily it's because the cords that connect the sash's weights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be easily repaired at home. The majority of home centers have a rot-free drip cap that can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-pane window, make sure to check that one of the panes are not broken. This is due to the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can ruin the interior of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your home and lead to the growth of mold. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible to limit damage.
One common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and stop leakage. It is also essential to look for cracks and gaps around the frame as well as in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.
Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing on the bottom of your window and ensure that it's sealed properly.
Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A rotted drip cap or one that's missing can allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a drip cap isn't an arduous task and is typically a simple task of purchasing a new one and putting it in the right spot.
It's recommended to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a qualified. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will have to replace them. This is a cost-effective repair however it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't shut properly, it could lead to various issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also be an indication that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant is worn out. There are a few options you can do to fix the problem.
The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to fix your window repairs in a timely manner. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that could be leaking from the window during your work.
Use a white cloth soaked in a mixture of water and detergent. This will stop any color stains from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, start by making a note of where the hinge channel must be located. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are made from wood). Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.
Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure you center it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.
Next, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle. You can then order an alternative online or bring your old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it out so that the set screw can secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC windows should shut without a hitch.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't working properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This could create problems with security and prevent your home from being cool or warm. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's important that you use the right hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges need to be of the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most popular type of hinge used in windows made of uPVC is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.
Your window hinges could be slack or stiff due to a variety of reasons. The hinges might not be sufficiently tightened. To test this, take an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.
If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your window hinges and provide you with the best solution for your needs. We can replace your window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for a long time to come.
The locks are not working properly
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important element of home security. They make it difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. When a lock fails, it can be frustrating, but it's an easy fix and you do not need to replace the whole window.
It's often an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our annual maintenance program to minimize the chance of any issues.
Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but if they are not maintained in a timely manner, they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as easily as they used to or if the lock is not functioning properly, it's likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. This can be difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals around the window frame and removing the handle.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly, and then replace the failed locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.