Speak "Yes" To These 5 Window Repairs Tips

UPVC Window Repairs

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

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

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can pose a serious problem. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress as well as less effective protection against cold temperatures and the possibility of structural damage. It is essential to locate a local builder or repair service who specializes in repairing uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired before it gets any worse and that you don't need to replace the window glass or window unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of DIY solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a while. For more severe cracks the tape might need to extend beyond the crack on both sides to get the best results.

Another option is two-part epoxy that 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 your workspace is prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the tools necessary for the job.

If you find that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it is most likely due to the cords connected to the sashweights are damaged. Thankfully, this is a simple repair that can be made with the help of a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is another simple repair that is done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed and put in place using caulk. If you have a double glazing or triple-pane window doctor, make sure to check that one of the panes is not broken. This is due to the gases that are leaking out between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency and should be kept, not escaping.

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 as well as mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit the damage.

One common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help bring the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. It is also essential to look for gaps and cracks around the frame, as well as in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. Verify that the drainage holes haven't been blocked or blocked, especially after heavy rain. You should also look at the windows' flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

It's also essential to make sure that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that is missing will allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't difficult and is usually a straightforward process of purchasing the new one and nailing it into place.

It's recommended to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a qualified. They can employ a specific tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant has worn out. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem.

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

You will also want to use a white cloth that has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. This will ensure you don't leave any stains of color on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.

After the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb and that you drill the new holes approximately a quarter inch from the original locations.

Next, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle and then order an alternative online or bring the old one in to a hardware store for matching. Remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or are not functioning correctly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This can cause an issue with security and stop your home from being warm or cool. You can easily get a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's important that you use the right type for your windows.

The hinges have to be the same size in order to fit into the window frame. The most common type of hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common issues that homeowners have with their windows, like not closing properly.

There are many reasons why your window hinges could have become slack or stiff. The hinges might not be sufficiently tightened. To check this, use a screwdriver to find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your window hinges and advise you on the best solution for your needs. We can replace window hinges or retension them, or even install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential part of security for your home. They make it very difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. When a lock fails, it can be frustrating, but it is a quick and simple fix and you don't need to replace the entire window.

It's often a minor issue that could have been easily prevented by regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose of the handle onto a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, however should they not be maintained in a timely manner, they may start to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.

If you notice your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to or if the lock doesn't function properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes in the frame. Accessing this can be tricky since it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and removing the handle (be careful not to scratch the seals).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs is able to identify the problem quickly and be able to replace the failed locking gearbox with an exact replacement. This quick and easy fix can save you hundreds by avoiding having to purchase new windows.