UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows are energy efficient and help to reduce heating bills. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be addressed. This could include damaged hinges, handles, or locks.
Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can be cheaper than buying a brand new window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can pose a serious problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience as well as the right equipment to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.
There are many home-based remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that can keep cracked glass in place for a while. For cracks that are more extensive, tape might need to be extended on both sides.
Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Hardware stores typically sell this product for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the correct tool for the job, such as a soldering iron.
If you find that your lower or upper sash has difficulty raising it could be because the cords attached to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is another simple repair that can be completed at home. The majority of home centers have a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window is not cracked. The reason is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window and must not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows leak, it could damage the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as the growth of mold. It's important to address any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible to limit the damage.
The most common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and prevent leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps in the frame, as well as in the brick or stone walls that surround your windows.
Another common reason for leaking windows is the drainage hole is blocked or faulty flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and ensure that it's sealed properly.
Finally, it's essential to ensure that your drip cap isn't broken or decaying. A damaged or damaged drip cap can let water in 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 simple as buying the new one and nailing it into place.
It's an excellent idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can utilize a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. This is a costly fix, but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't close properly, it could cause various problems, such as drafts, condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. There are fortunately, a few options to correct the issue.
The first step is to prepare an area with ample natural light to repair your window correctly. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that could be leaking from the window during your work.
Use a white cloth soaked in a mix of detergent and water. This will stop any stains of color from appearing on your windows. When you are ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be placed. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.
Once the holes are filled, you can install the hinge channel. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and drill the new screwholes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can request an replacement or take it to a hardware shop to find a suitable replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it out so that the set screw is able to lock onto the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should shut smoothly.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't working properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause an issue with security and stop your home from being warm or cool. It's simple to find an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to ensure you have the correct hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges must be the same size to fit in the window frame. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are special types of hinges for windows that can be used on different kinds of frames such as wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common issues that homeowners have with their windows, such as not closing properly.
There are several reasons why your window hinges may have become stiff or loose. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. You can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it either way until you get the desired result.
Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning properly. We can offer a quick fix. Our experts will assess the condition of the hinges on your windows and advise you on the best option for you. We can replace hinges on windows or retension them, or even install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.
Faulty Locks
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important component of security for your home. They make it extremely 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 easy repair and you don't need to replace the entire window.
Sometimes, the issue is a small issue which could have been averted if you have had regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend having your uPVC windows checked regularly by our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of issues.
Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very effective in keeping the window secure, but over time, they could begin to fail if they are not properly maintained - we recommend using WD-40 for lubrication every couple of times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as quickly as they used to, or If the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox within the window frame. This can be difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame of the window, and taking the handle off.
A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able to identify the problem quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds by avoiding having to buy new windows.