10 Window Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend

UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age, issues can develop that require repair. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration and less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the potential for structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the required skills, experience and equipment to get 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 super glue are among the most commonly used products that can hold broken glass in place for a few minutes. For more severe cracks the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides to get the best results.

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the tools necessary for the job.

If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily it's most likely because the cords on the sash weights are damaged. This is an easy fix that is done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that is done at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily nailed or caulked in place. Make sure that the glass of double or triple-paned window isn't broken. The reason is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window and should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can ruin the interior of your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible to limit the damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical cause of leaks. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps in the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective Flashing are two other common causes of leaking windows. It's important to check that the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It is also important to examine the flashing around your window to ensure it is properly sealed.

Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't missing or damaged. A rotted or damaged drip cap could allow water to enter the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the drip cap isn't a complicated job and usually a straightforward process of buying a new one and putting it in place.

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

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause various issues, such as drafts condensation and a rise in energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant is no longer effective. There are fortunately, a few options to fix the problem.

In order to repair your window properly it is essential to set up a work space with plenty of natural light. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window as you work.

It is also recommended to make use of a white cloth that has been immersed in a solution of water and detergent. This will help prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. When you are ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by marking where the hinge channel should be situated. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are constructed of wood). Be sure to smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.

Once the holes have been filled, you can install the hinge channel. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb. Also, make sure that you drill the holes for the new screws about one quarter inch away from the original locations.

Next, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order an alternative or bring it to a shop selling hardware for a replacement. Then, take out the setscrew 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 window should close easily.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or not working correctly. This can be a security issue and could also hinder your home from being warm or cold. It's easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's crucial to choose the right hinge 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 hinge used in Upvc windows is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners have with their windows, such as not closing properly.

There are several reasons why your window hinges may have become slack or stiff. One of the most common causes is that the hinges are not properly securing. You can test this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and then loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it either way until you achieve the desired result.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning properly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the most suitable 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 the long haul.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential part of security for your home. They make it extremely difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. When a lock fails it could be frustrating, however it is a quick and easy repair and you don't have to replace the entire window.

Often the problem can be a small issue which could have been averted by regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our yearly maintenance package in order to reduce the likelihood of any problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose end of the handle onto the wedge block, then turning it to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, but should they not be maintained correctly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as quickly as they used to or if the lock is not working properly it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. This is often difficult to access as it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame of the window, and taking off the handle.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.