5 Must-Know Practices For Window Repairs In 2023

UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they get older, issues can develop that require fixing. This can be due to damaged handles, hinges, or locks.

DIY people can fix wooden windows fairly easily. It can also be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress, less effective protection against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local builder or repair service that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and has the skills, experience and tools needed to produce the most effective results. This will ensure that your shattered window is repaired before it gets any worse and you don't have to replace the window glass or window unit.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most common products used to keep glass that has cracked in position for a short duration. For deeper cracks, tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the proper tool for the job such as a soldering iron.

If you notice that your lower or upper sash is having difficulty lifting it is most likely due to the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be accomplished with the help of the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be repaired at home. Many home centers stock a rot-free drip cap that can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Also, if you have a double or triple-paned window, be sure to check that one of the panes are not broken. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window. This must not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can damage the interior of your house and result in costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. It's important to address any problems caused by leaking windows immediately to prevent damage.

The most common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and stop leakage. It's also important 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 faulty Flashing are two other typical causes of windows leaking. Check that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. It is also important to check the window's flashing to ensure that it's properly sealed.

It's also essential to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that's not there allows water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap isn't a complicated job, and it's usually a straightforward process of buying an entirely new one and putting it in the right spot.

It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness with a professional. They can employ a specific tool to determine the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. It's a costly fix but it's is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly it can cause various issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren't well fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer working. Fortunately, there are a few ways to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare an area that has plenty of light to fix your window correctly. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window during your work.

You will also want to use a white cloth which has been immersed in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any color stains on your windows. Mark the location of 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 smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes are filled. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb, and that you drill the new holes approximately quarter inch away from the original locations.

Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order a replacement or bring it to a local hardware store for a replacement. Then, take out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator and file it flat so the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should close without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or not working correctly. This could create a security problem and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. It's simple to find a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to ensure that you have the correct hinge for your windows.

The hinges need to be identical in size to fit into the window replacement near me frame. The most popular type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, like not closing properly.

There are several reasons why your window hinges could be loose or stiff. The hinges might not be tightened enough. You can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't functioning as they should, you can contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the best solution. We can replace hinges on windows or retension them, or even install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.

Faulty locks

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. If a lock fails, it can be a frustrating experience, 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 avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose end of the handle over the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, but when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or close as smoothly as they used to or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it's likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. It can be difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals around the window frame and taking the handle off.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to identify the problem quickly and be able replace the failed locking gearbox with a exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.