Window Repairs Tips That Will Change Your Life

UPVC Window Repairs

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

Wooden window repair is fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be much less expensive than a brand new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in windows made of uPVC can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration, less effective protection against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. It is essential to locate a local builder or repair service that specializes in fixing uPVC frames and can demonstrate the skills, experience and tools needed to produce the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse, and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

There are a variety of home solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most commonly used products to hold cracked glass in place for a brief period of time. For more severe cracks, the tape may need be extended on both sides.

Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought for about $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the right tool for the job, like a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily, it's likely because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that can be done using a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be easily replaced at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed or put in place using caulk. If you have a double- or triple-paned window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes is not broken. This is due to the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home, as well as the growth of mold. To avoid damage, it's important to repair any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent reason for leaks. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. It is also essential to look for cracks and gaps in the frame as well in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is blocked drainage holes or faulty flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the lower part of your window to ensure that it's sealed properly.

It's also essential to make sure that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A rotten drip cap or one that's not there allows water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn't difficult. It's as simple as purchasing a new one, and nailing it in place.

It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a qualified. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. It's a costly fix, but is worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not shut properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could be an indication that the windows were not properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer working. There are several things you can try to solve the problem.

To repair your window correctly, you need to set up a workspace with plenty of natural light. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will stop any color stains from appearing on your windows. When you are ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of where the hinge channel should be located. Then unscrew 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 smooth the hole before it sets.

Once the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Make sure it is aligned with the window jamb and make sure you drill the new holes approximately quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of the handle and then order a replacement online or bring your old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, remove the setscrew from the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. 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 doctor. This could cause an issue with security and stop your home from staying cool or warm. It's simple to purchase a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It's important that you use the right type for your windows.

The hinges have to be the same size to fit inside the window frame. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, such as not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons your window hinges may be loose or stiff. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. You can test this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust the hinge by twisting it in any direction until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the best solution. 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.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are a very important part of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be frustrating when a lock fails but you don't have to replace the entire window.

It's often an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose of the handle on the wedge block, then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, however when they are not maintained correctly, over time they could begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as quickly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes inside the frame. This is often difficult to access as it requires the removal of the seals that surround the window frame and removing the handle.

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs is able to identify the problem quickly and be able replace the failed locking gearbox with an exact replacement. This simple and quick fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to buy new windows.