UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be addressed. This could include damaged handles, hinges or locks.
Wooden window repair (repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk) is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be cheaper than a new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They should possess the necessary knowledge and experience, as well as the equipment needed to ensure the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you won’t have to replace your window unit or glass.
Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that will hold cracked glass in place for a while. For cracks that are more extensive, tape might need to be extended on both sides.
Alternatively, window repair two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. The majority of hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the equipment required for the job.
If your upper or lower sash is difficult to raise it’s because the cords on the sash’s weights have been damaged. It’s a simple repair that can be made with the help of the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be repaired at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at most home centers and can be nailed and put in place using caulk. If you have a double glazing repairs or triple-pane window, be 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 efficiency of the window. They must not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To avoid the damage, it’s essential to fix any problems caused by leaky windows immediately.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and stop leakage. It’s also important to look for cracks and gaps in the frame, as well as in the brick or stone walls that surround your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows leaking. Make sure that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, especially after heavy rain. It’s also recommended to examine the flashing on the bottom of your window and ensure it’s sealed correctly.
It is also important to make sure that your drip cap isn’t missing or damaged. A rotten drip cap or one that’s missing will allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn’t a daunting task. It’s as easy as purchasing a new one, and nailing it in place.
A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine 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 repair however it’s worth it for the comfort and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows aren’t closing properly it can cause many issues, including drafts, condensation and an increase in energy costs. It could also be a sign that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant has stopped working. There are a few options you can do to fix the problem.
In order to repair your window properly, you need to set up a workspace with ample natural light. Start by laying down newspaper or a blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows while you work.
Use a white cloth, soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will stop any stains of color appearing on your windows. Note the location of 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 using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.
Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Make sure it’s aligned with the window jamb and that you drill the new holes approximately a quarter inch from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle and order a replacement online or bring your old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, take out the setscrew on the operator shaft and smooth it so that the set screw will lock onto the shaft (photo). Then, your uPVC windows should close smoothly.
Broken Hinges
You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren’t working correctly. This could cause an issue with security and stop your home from being warm or cool. It’s easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It’s important that you use the right type for your windows.
The hinges have to be the same size in order to fit in the window frame. The most commonly used hinges for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for other types of frames like 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, such as not closing properly.
The hinges on your windows could be slack or stiff for a variety of reasons. The hinges may not have been sufficiently tightened. You can check this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in any direction until you achieve the desired result.
Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window’s hinges aren’t working correctly. We can provide an immediate fix. Our experts will assess the condition of the hinges on your windows and advise you on the best option for you. We can repair or replace the window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for a long time to come.
Faulty Locks
UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential part of your home security, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking in. When a lock fails it could be frustrating, however it is a quick and simple fix and you don’t need to replace the entire window.
Sometimes, the issue is an issue which could have been averted when you had regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of issues.
Most modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are extremely effective in keeping the window secure, but with time, they may begin to fail if they are not properly maintained. We suggest applying WD-40 to the lock at least once per year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren’t opening and shut as easily as they used to or if the lock is not working properly it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. Accessing this can be tricky as it requires the removing of seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be cautious not to damage the seals).
A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to identify the problem quickly and be able replace the gearbox that failed to lock with an exact replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.