10 Window Repairs Tricks Experts Recommend

UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age, issues can develop that require repair. This can include faulty handles, hinges or locks.

DIY people can fix wooden windows relatively easily. It is also cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration, less effective barriers against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. It is crucial to find an experienced local repair or builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the most effective results. This will ensure that the fracture is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of DIY solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that can keep cracked glass in place for a while. For deeper cracks the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides for optimal results.

Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. This is available from most hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right equipment for the job, like a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it's due to the fact that the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that can be made with the help of a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a different repair that can be done at home. Rot-free drip caps are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed or caulked into place with ease. Check that the glass of double-paned or triple-paned window replacement is not broken. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window. They should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your home and can cause mold growth. It's important to address any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize the damage.

The most common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. Look for gaps and cracks between the window frame and also the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing on the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It is also important to ensure that your drip cap isn't missing or decaying. A rotted drip cap or one that's missing can allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap isn't a complicated job and is generally a simple process of buying the new one and nailing it into place.

It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. They can make use of a device to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they will require replacement. It's a costly fix but it's worthwhile to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could cause various problems, such as drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy costs. It could also indicate that the windows weren't installed correctly or the sealant has worn out. There are a few things you can do to solve the issue.

In order to repair your window properly it is essential to set up a work space that is well-lit. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. When you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by marking the location where the hinge channel needs to be situated. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes have been filled. Make sure it is centered on the window jamb. Also, make sure make sure you drill the new holes approximately one quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order an replacement or take it to a local hardware store for a replacement. Remove the setscrew from the shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should close easily.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or not working correctly. This can be a security problem and can also stop your home from staying warm or cold. You can easily get a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right type for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same size to fit in the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. The correct type of hinge can help you avoid common issues with your windows.

There are several reasons why your window hinges may have become stiff or loose. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. You can test this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it either way until you get the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can provide an immediate fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best option for you. We can replace the window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for the long haul.

The locks are not working properly

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important part of home security. They make it very difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. It can be a frustrating experience when a lock malfunctions, but you don't have to replace the entire window.

Sometimes, the issue is a small issue that could have been avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our annual maintenance program to decrease the chances of any issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose of the handle on a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping windows closed, however with time, they may begin to fail if they are not properly maintained. We recommend using WD-40 for lubrication at least once per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as quickly as they used to, or if the lock is not functioning properly, it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. It can be difficult to access this as it requires the removing of the seals that surround the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch the seals).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and then be able to repair the gearbox that failed to lock with a exact replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.