5 Reasons Window Repairs Can Be A Beneficial Thing

UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age problems can arise which need fixing. This can be due to damaged handles, hinges, or locks.

Wooden window repairs can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major issue. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience as well as the right equipment to get the best results. This will ensure that your shattered window is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

There are a variety of home solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most popular products that can keep cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For deeper cracks the tape might need to extend beyond the crack on both sides to get the optimal results.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair broken or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores offer this product at around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the correct tool for the job such as a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily it's because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. This is an easy fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a second repair that can be done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. If you have a double glazing or triple-paned window, be sure to make sure that one of the panes is not broken. This is because the gasses that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be retained, not escaping.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can damage the interior of your house and cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home as well as the growth of mold. To avoid the damage, it's essential to address any issues caused by windows that leak immediately.

One common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. Check for cracks and gaps between the window frame and also the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clear and unclogged, especially in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.

Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't damaged or rotten. A rotted drip cap or one that's not there allows water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't a complicated job, and it's generally a simple process of buying the new one and nailing it into the correct position.

It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a qualified. They can use a special 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'll require replacement. This is a cost-effective repair but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows aren't closing properly, it could cause many issues, such as drafts condensation and a rise in energy bills. It could be an indication that the windows weren't properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer working. There are fortunately, a few ways to fix the problem.

The first step is to prepare an area with ample natural light to repair your window in a timely manner. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that may come from the window while you work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are constructed from wood). Make sure you scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes are filled. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb and make sure you drill the holes for the new screws about quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can order an replacement or take it to a shop selling hardware for a replacement. Then, remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should be closing easily.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't working correctly. This could cause an issue with security and stop your home from staying cool or warm. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to ensure you have the right hinge for your windows.

The hinges have to be the same size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most popular hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common issues that homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges of your window may be loose or stiff for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't properly securing. You can test this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge, and then loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you get the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning correctly. We can provide an immediate fix. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges for your windows and advise you on the best solution for you. We can replace window doctor hinges and retension them. We can also install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC windows are secure and safe.

Locks that aren't working

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

Most of the time, it's an issue that could have been avoided when you had regular maintenance. This is why we suggest getting your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of issues.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped 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 effective in locking the window, but if they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening and close as smoothly as they used to or if the lock is not working properly it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. It can be difficult to access because it requires removing the seals around the frame of the window and then taking the handle off.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs is able to identify the problem quickly and be able to replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a exact replacement. This quick and simple fix can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to buy new windows.