5 Window Repairs Lessons Learned From The Professionals

UPVC Window Repairs

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

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

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows can be a serious issue. Leaving them unrepaired can cause water infiltration as well as less effective protection against cold temperatures and the possibility of structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the required skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your shattered window is fixed before it gets worse and you don't have to replace your window glass or unit.

There are numerous home solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that can hold broken glass in place for a while. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair damaged or cracked glasses. The majority of hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the tools necessary to complete the task.

If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise, it's likely because the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. It's a simple double glazing repair that can be done using an extension ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed or caulked into place with ease. If you have a double glazing repair or triple-pane window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes isn't broken. The reason for this is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the efficiency of the window. They should not be allowed to 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 damage.

The most common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame, as well as the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It's also important to make sure that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A rotten or missing drip cap will let water in the window from above, causing damage to your home's structure. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky isn't difficult. It's as easy as buying an entirely new one and nailing it in place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they comply with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. This is a costly fix, but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could lead to a number issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren't well fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer working. There are a few options you can do to solve the issue.

The first step is to prepare an area with plenty of natural light to fix your window correctly. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from drips or splinters that might be coming from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. When you are ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of where the hinge channel should be placed. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are constructed from wood). Make sure you scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Make sure it's centered on the window jamb, and make sure you drill the new holes approximately a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can request an replacement or take it to a local hardware store for a replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and file it flat so the set screw is able to lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC windows should shut easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or are not functioning correctly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause problems with security and prevent your home from being cool or warm. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to ensure that you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges must be identical in size to fit into the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are specialised types of hinges for windows that can be used on other types of frames like wooden frames. The right type of hinge can help you avoid the common issues with your windows.

There are several reasons why the hinges on your windows be loose or stiff. The hinges may not be tightened enough. You can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it in any direction until you achieve the desired result.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work properly. We can offer an immediate fix. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges and give you advice on the best solution. 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 a long time to come.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial component of home security. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. When a lock fails it could be frustrating, however it is a quick and simple fix and you don't need to replace the whole window.

It's often an issue that could have been easily prevented by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose of the handle onto a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, but should they not be maintained in a timely manner, they could begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every couple of times a 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. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult because it requires the removal of seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be cautious not to damage the seals).

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