UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. However, as they age, problems can arise which need repair. This can include faulty hinges, handles or locks.
Wooden window repair is relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration and less effective protection against cold weather and even the potential for structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local repair or builder that specializes in fixing uPVC frames and has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the most effective results. This will ensure that your fracture is repaired quickly before it gets any 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 DIY solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a brief duration. For cracks that are more extensive, the tape may need to extend beyond the crack on both sides to achieve the optimal results.
Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. The majority of hardware stores offer this product at around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the correct tool for the job for example, a soldering tool.
If you find that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. It's an easy fix that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that is done at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at most home centers and can be nailed or put in place using caulk. If you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to make sure that one of the panes isn't broken. This is because the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, this can ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. To prevent the damage, it's essential to fix any problems caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.
The most common cause of window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help 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 that surround your windows.
Another common reason for leaking windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing around the lower part of your window to ensure that it's sealed properly.
It's also important to check that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A rotted drip cap or one that's missing allows water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky isn't a daunting task. It's as simple as purchasing the new one and nailing it into place.
A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can use a tool to test the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in compliance with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. It's a costly fix but it's is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.
Sagging
If your windows aren't closing properly, it could cause various issues, including drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy costs. It could also mean that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant has worn away. There are a few things you can try to fix the problem.
The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space with plenty of natural light to repair your window correctly. Begin by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to shield the flooring from any splinters and drips that may fall from windows as you work.
Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the filled hole before it sets.
Install the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure it's centered on the window jamb, and that you drill the new holes approximately one quarter inch away from the original locations.
Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order a replacement or bring it to a local hardware store to find a suitable replacement. Then, remove the setscrew from the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should shut without a hitch.
Broken Hinges
You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or not working properly. This could be a security issue and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. window repair near me can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right hinge for your windows.
The hinges have to be the same size to fit in the frame of the window. The most common type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Finding the right 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 many reasons why the hinges on your windows have become slack or stiff. One of the most common causes is that the hinges aren't properly securing. To test this, take a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it either way until you achieve the desired result.
Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning properly. We can offer a quick fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of the hinges on your windows and recommend the best solution for you. We can replace window hinges or retension them, or even install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure.
Faulty Locks
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important element of security for your home. They make it difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. It can be a hassle when a lock fails, but you don't have to replace the entire window.
Most of the time, it's an issue which could have been averted if you have had regular maintenance. This is why we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of problems.
Modern uPVC windows have 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 efficient in keeping windows closed, however over time they can start to fail if not properly maintained. We recommend lubricating with WD-40 a couple of times per year.
If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as smoothly as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and removing the handle (be careful not to damage these).
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and be able replace the damaged gearbox for locking with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to purchase new windows.