UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age, issues can develop that require repair. This could include damaged hinges, handles or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows with ease. It can be cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and tears in uPVC windows could be a serious issue. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the required skills and experience as well as the right equipment to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your shattered window is repaired before it gets any worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.
There are a variety of home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that will hold cracked glass in place for a while. For cracks that are more extensive the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides for optimal results.
Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. It is available at most hardware stores and is available for about $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the right tool for the job such as a soldering iron.
If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it's most likely because the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. Thankfully, this is a simple repair that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is another simple repair that is done at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily nailed or caulked in place. If you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to make sure that one of the panes are not broken. The reason for this is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your home and lead to the growth of mold. It is crucial to address any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize damage.
The most common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and stop leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame, and also the brick or stone wall 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 haven't been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.
It's also important to make sure that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotten or damaged drip cap can let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky is not a difficult task. It's as simple as purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it in place.
A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they comply with the standards of the industry. If your windows don't pass the test, you will have to replace them. This is a costly fix however it's worth it for the comfort and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause a variety of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could also be a sign that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant is no longer effective. There are a few options you can try to solve the issue.
To repair your window correctly it is necessary to set up a work space that is well-lit. 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.
You should also use a white cloth which has been submerged in a solution containing water and detergent. This will stop any stains of color appearing on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are constructed of wood). Make sure window repair near me scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.
Once the holes are filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Make sure you center it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.
Then, measure the length of the spindle protruding from underside of the handle. You can then order an alternative online or bring your old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should be closing without difficulty.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or are not functioning correctly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This could be a security risk and can also stop your home from staying warm or cold. You can easily purchase an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to make sure you have the right hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges have to be the same width to fit inside the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners have with their windows, like not closing properly.
The hinges on your windows could be stiff or loose for a variety of reasons. One common cause is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. 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 are able to adjust it by twisting it in any direction until you get the desired result.
If your UPVC window hinges aren't functioning as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges, and give you suggestions on the best solution. We can replace window hinges or retension them, or even install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.
Locks that aren't working
UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential part of your home security, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it is a quick and simple fix and you don't need to replace the whole window.
It is often an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend having your uPVC windows checked regularly by our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of having problems.
Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose end of the handle over 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 could begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times per year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as quickly as they used too, or when the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. It can be difficult to access this since it requires the removal of the seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage the seals).
A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able detect the issue quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to buy new windows.