A Step-By Step Guide To Selecting The Right Window Repairs

UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. However, as they age, problems can arise which need fixing. This could include damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repairs can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It's cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local repair or builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and tools needed to produce the most effective results. This will ensure that the fracture is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

There are numerous home solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in the glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most common products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a short time. For more severe cracks, the tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also use two-part epoxy to double glazing repair broken or cracked glasses. This is available from most hardware stores and can be bought at a cost of around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the right tool for the job like a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise, it's likely due to the fact that the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. It's an easy fix that can be made with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be repaired 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 into place with ease. If you have a double glazing or triple-paned window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes is not broken. This is because the gases that are filling the space between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can cause damage to your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and the growth of mold. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize the damage.

One common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame, as well as the stone or brick wall that surrounds your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. Check that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing that runs around the top of your window and ensure that it's sealed properly.

It's also crucial to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A damaged or damaged drip cap can allow water to enter the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a drip cap isn't a complicated job and is typically a simple task of buying the new one and putting it in the correct position.

It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. They can employ a specific tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows to make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. It's a costly repair, but is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It can also be a sign that the windows weren't properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer working. There are a few options you can try to resolve the issue.

The first step is to set up your workspace in a space with plenty of natural light to help repair your window properly. Begin by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips that might fall off the windows while you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Make sure that it is aligned with the window jamb, and make sure you drill the holes for the new screws about one quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can request an alternative or bring it to a hardware shop to find a suitable replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator, and then file it flat so the set screw will lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't working properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could create problems with security and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. It is easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to ensure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

The hinges must be the same size in order to fit into the window frame. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. The right type of hinge will allow you to avoid common issues with your windows.

The hinges of your window could be stiff or loose due to a variety of reasons. One common cause is that the hinges aren't properly securing. To check this, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the hinge's end. Loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best option for you. We can replace the window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for years to come.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial element of home security. They make it very difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it's an easy fix and you do not have to replace the entire window.

It's often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided with regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our yearly maintenance program to decrease the chances of any issues.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose of the handle onto the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely effective in keeping the window secure, but with time, they may begin to fail if they are not properly maintained. We recommend using WD-40 for lubrication every couple of times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as quickly as it used to or if the lock doesn't function properly, there may be a problem with the locking gearboxes in the frame. It can be difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the window frame and taking off the handle.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and then be able to repair the gearbox that failed to lock with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.