Why Window Repairs May Be More Dangerous Than You Believed

UPVC Window Repairs

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

Wooden window repair can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in windows made of uPVC 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 repairing uPVC frames. They should possess the necessary knowledge and experience as well as the right equipment to ensure the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it gets any worse and that you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular products used to keep glass that has cracked in position for a short period of time. For more severe cracks the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides to achieve the best results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy for UPVC repair repairing broken or cracked glasses. Hardware stores typically sell this product for around $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the tools required for the job.

If you find that your lower or upper sash is having difficulty lifting, it is likely because the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed and caulked in place with ease. Also, if you have a double glazing repair or triple-pane window, make sure to make sure that one of the panes are not broken. The reason is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the energy efficiency of the window. This should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and the growth of mold. To minimize damage, it's important to repair any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical cause of leaks. The use of silicone caulking can improve the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water 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 the other two typical causes of windows that leak. Verify that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after a heavy downpour. It is also important to look at the window's flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

Finally, it's essential to ensure that your drip cap isn't broken or rotten. A rotted or missing drip cap will 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 simple as buying a new one, and nailing it into place.

It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a qualified. They can employ a specific tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows to make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will have to replace them. This is a cost-effective repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could lead to a number issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant has stopped working. Fortunately, there are a few options to fix the problem.

In order to repair your window properly, you need to create a space with ample natural light. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a mix of detergent and water. This will ensure that you don't leave any color stains on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for Upvc repair frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb and make sure you drill the new holes approximately a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order an replacement or take it to a shop selling hardware for a replacement. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and smooth it so that the set screw will secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should shut smoothly.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or aren't working correctly. This could cause an issue with security and stop your home from being cool or warm. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It is essential to select the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most popular type of hinge used in windows made of uPVC is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will assist you in avoiding the common problems that many homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff for several reasons. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. You can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust it by twisting it in either direction until you have the desired result.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work properly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our technicians will examine the condition of the hinges on your windows and recommend the best option for you. We can replace window hinges or retension them, or even install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential part of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. If 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 an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest getting your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, however should they not be maintained in a timely manner, they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as quickly as they used too, or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it's likely that there is a problem with the gearbox that locks the window frame. Accessing this can be tricky as it requires the removing of the seals that surround the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage the seals).

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to quickly identify the issue and be able replace the failed locking gearbox with an exact replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.