UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age, issues can develop that require repair. This could include damaged handles, hinges, or locks.
Wooden window repair can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It's less expensive than purchasing a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows could be a serious problem. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They must possess the necessary knowledge and experience, as well as the equipment needed to get the best results. This will ensure that your shattered window is repaired before it worsens and you don't have to replace your window glass or unit.
Small cracks in glass can be fixed with a range of home-based solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that can keep cracked glass in place for a time. For deeper cracks the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides to get the best results.
Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought at a cost of around $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the equipment needed for the job.
If your lower or upper sash is difficult to raise it's most likely because the cords that connect the sash's weights have been damaged. Thankfully, this is a simple repair that can be made using an extension ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be replaced at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at a majority of home centers and can be secured with nails and put in place using caulk. If you have a double- or triple-pane window, make sure to check that one of the panes isn't broken. This is because the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your home and cause mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit damage.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. The use of silicone caulking can improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It's also important to look for cracks and gaps around the frame as well as in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.
Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is a blocked drainage hole or a defective flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It is also important to check the window's flashing to ensure that it is well-sealed.
It's also essential to make sure that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A rotten or missing drip cap will allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky isn't a daunting task. It's as easy as buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.
It's recommended to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. 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 will have to be replaced. This is a costly 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, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant is worn out. There are several things you can do to fix the problem.
To fix your window properly it is necessary to create a space that is well-lit. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window while you work.
You will also want to use a white cloth which has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will stop any stains of color from appearing on your windows. When you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of where the hinge channel should be situated. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.
After the holes have been filled, you can install the hinge channel. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb. Also, make sure make sure you drill the new holes approximately a quarter inch from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of the handle and then order an alternative online or bring your old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, pull out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator, and then file it flat so the set screw is able to be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should close smoothly.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or aren't working properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This could be a security problem and could also hinder your home from being warm or cold. It's simple to find a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. But, it's crucial to make sure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges must be the same size to fit into the window frame. The most common hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames like wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the common problems that many homeowners face with their windows, such as not closing properly.
There are several reasons why your window hinges could have become slack or stiff. The hinges may not have been tightened enough. To check, use an electric screwdriver to find the friction screw on the hinge's end. Then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.
If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can replace the window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for a long time to come.
Locks that aren't working
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial part of security for your home. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. When 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 whole window.
It's often an issue that could have been easily prevented by regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our yearly maintenance plan to minimize the chance of any problems.
glass window repair of modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but when they are not maintained correctly, over time they could begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times per year.
If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. This can be difficult to access as it requires removing the seals that surround the window frame and taking off the handle.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able to diagnose this fault quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a quick and easy repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.