A Step-By'-Step Guide To Picking Your Window Repairs

UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be fixed. This could include damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

DIY people can fix wooden windows with ease. It can be cheaper than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration, less effective protection against cold weather and even the potential for structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the required skills, experience and equipment to ensure the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it worsens and that you don't need to replace your window glass or window unit.

There are a variety of home solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most common solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a short time. For cracks that are more extensive the tape might need to extend beyond the crack on both sides for optimal results.

Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. Hardware stores typically sell this product for around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the proper equipment for the job, such as a soldering iron.

If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise it's because the cords that connect the sash's weights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at a majority of home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-pane window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes isn't broken. The reason is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for improving the efficiency of the window and should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could cause damage to the interior of your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and the growth of mold. To prevent damage, it's important to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as you can.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical reason for leaks. The use of silicone caulking can restore the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame and also the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is a blocked drainage hole or a defective flashing. Verify that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. You should also check the windows' flashing to ensure it is well-sealed.

It's also essential to ensure that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that's missing can allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a drip cap isn't difficult and is typically a simple task of purchasing a new one and nailing it into the correct position.

It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. They can use a tool to test the water-tightness of your windows, and make sure they are in compliance with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. It's a costly fix but it's worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it can lead to a number problems, including condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant has worn out. There are fortunately, a few ways to fix the issue.

The first step is to set up your workspace in a space that has plenty of light to fix your window in a timely manner. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any splinters or drips that may come from the window during your work.

You will also want to use a white cloth which has been immersed in a solution of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by marking where the hinge channel should be located. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are constructed of wood). Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

After the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Be sure to center it on the window jamb and drill the screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Next, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle and then order an alternative online or bring the old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Finally, back out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it out so that the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or aren't functioning properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This can cause a security problem and prevent your home from staying cool or warm. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your upvc window repairs window. It's important that you use the correct type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges need to be identical in size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be properly tightened. To check, use a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the hinge's end. Loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust the hinge by twisting it in any direction until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, you can contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the most suitable solution. We can repair or replace the window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for years to come.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be a frustrating experience when a lock fails however, you don't have to replace the entire window.

Sometimes, the issue is a minor issue that could have been avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our annual maintenance package in order to reduce the likelihood of any problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose end of the handle over the wedge block, then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, however should they not be maintained properly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as smoothly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't work correctly, it could be a problem with locking gearboxes within the frame. It can be difficult to access this because it requires the removal of seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly, and then replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism using a precise replacement. This is a quick and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to buy new windows.