UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they get older, issues can develop that require fixing. This can be due to damaged handles, hinges or locks.
Wooden window repairs can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It can be cheaper than purchasing a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks in uPVC windows can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress, less effective protection against cold temperatures and the possibility of structural damage. It is important to find a local repair or builder that specialises in the repair of uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it worsens and that you don’t need to replace your window repair glass or window unit.
Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that can hold broken glass in place for a while. For deeper cracks the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides to get the optimal results.
Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores offer this product at around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the proper tool for the job, like a soldering iron.
If your upper or lower sash isn’t lifting easily it’s most likely because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. This is an easy fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be easily repaired at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at most home centers and can be nailed and put in place using caulk. Make sure that the glass of double-paned or triple-paned window is not cracked. This is due to the gases that fill the space 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 damage the interior of your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. To prevent damage, it’s important to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as you can.
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 stop water leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame, and also the stone or brick wall that surrounds your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or faulty Flashing are two other typical causes of windows that leak. Make sure that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. Also, you should examine the windows’ flashing to ensure it is well-sealed.
Finally, it’s essential to check that your drip cap isn’t broken or decaying. A damaged or damaged drip cap could allow water to enter the window from above, causing damage to your home’s structure. Replacing drip caps isn’t difficult, and it’s typically a simple task of purchasing a new one and putting it in the right spot.
A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows, and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, you’ll have to replace them. This is a cost-effective repair, but it’s worth it for the comfort and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don’t shut properly it can cause many problems, such as drafts, condensation and an increase in energy bills. It can be an indication that the windows weren’t well installed or the sealant is no longer working. There are a few things you can do to fix the issue.
The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room that has plenty of light to help repair your window correctly. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that might be coming from the window repair while you work.
Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made of wood). Be sure to smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.
Install the hinge channel once the holes are filled. Be sure to center it on the window jamb, and then drill the new screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.
Next, measure the length of the spindle protruding from underside of the handle and order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, take out the setscrew on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw is able to secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC windows should be closing without a hitch.
Broken Hinges
It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or aren’t working properly. This could create problems with security and prevent your home from being warm or cool. It is easy to get 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 must be the same size to fit in the window frame. The most popular type of hinge used in Upvc window Repair windows is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The right type of hinge will allow you to avoid common issues with your windows.
The hinges of your window could be stiff or loose for a variety of reasons. The hinges may not have been sufficiently tightened. To test this, take an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the hinge’s end. Then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.
Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window’s hinges don’t work properly. We can offer a quick fix. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of the hinges on your windows and recommend the best solution for you. We can replace your window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for the long haul.
Faulty Locks
UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential component of home security. they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. When a lock fails it can be a frustrating experience, but it’s an simple fix and you don’t have to replace the entire window.
It’s often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our annual maintenance package in order to reduce the likelihood of any issues.
Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose end of the handle onto a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, however if they are not maintained correctly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows don’t open and shut as easily as they used to or If the lock isn’t working properly it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. This is often difficult to access since it requires removing the seals around the window frame and removing the handle.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and be able to replace the gearbox that failed to lock with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.