5 Must-Know Window Repairs-Practices You Need To Know For 2023

UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and help to reduce heating bills. As they age, however, problems can occur that need to be fixed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows with ease. It can also be much cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in uPVC windows can be a serious issue. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. It is crucial to find a local builder or repair service that specialises in fixing uPVC frames and who has the experience, skills and tools needed to produce the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is fixed before it gets worse and that you don't need to replace your window glass or window unit.

There are many home-based solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that can keep cracked glass in place for a time. For deeper cracks, tape might need to be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. This is available from most hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the tools required for the job.

If you find that your lower or upper sash has difficulty raising it is most likely due to the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be replaced at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed or put in place using caulk. Check that the glass of double glazing-paned or triple-paned window doctor is not damaged. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window. They should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could cause damage to the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To avoid damage, it's important to fix any problems caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing are the other two typical causes of windows leaking. Verify that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after a heavy downpour. You should also look at the flashing around your window to ensure that it's well-sealed.

It's also essential to check that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A rotten or damaged drip cap can let water in the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as easy as purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can utilize a special instrument to test the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll have to be replaced. This is a cost-effective repair but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly it can cause many issues, such as drafts condensation, and an increase in energy bills. It could be an indication that the windows were not properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer effective. There are a few things you can do to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space that has plenty of light to fix your window in a timely manner. Begin by laying down newspaper or a blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters and drips that may fall from windows while you work.

You should also make use of a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. When you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, start by marking where the hinge channel should be situated. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are made 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 it is aligned with the window jamb. Also, make sure that you drill the new screw holes about a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order an replacement or take it to a local hardware store for matching. Remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to be locked onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC window should shut easily.

Broken Hinges

There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or not working correctly. This could be a security risk and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to ensure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same width to fit inside the window frame. 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 typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, such as not closing properly.

The hinges of your window could be slack or stiff for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. To check this, use a screwdriver to find the friction screw on the hinge's end. Release it. Then, you are able to adjust it by twisting it either way until you have the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can provide an immediate fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the best solution. We can repair or replace the window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for the long haul.

Faulty locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial part of home security. They make it difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. It can be a hassle 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 by regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our annual maintenance plan to decrease the chances of having any issues.

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

If you notice your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as easily as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there may be a problem with the locking gearboxes in the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch these).

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