UPVC Window RepairsUpvc windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be addressed. This can be due to damaged handles, hinges or locks.
Wooden window repairs can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can also be much cheaper than a new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress, less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the risk of 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 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 repaired by using a variety of home-based solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a time. For more severe cracks, the tape may require to be extended on both sides.
Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. This is available from most hardware stores and can be bought for about $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the correct equipment for the job, like a soldering iron.
If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily it's because the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. Thankfully, this is a simple repair that can be accomplished with the help of a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. If you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to check that one of the panes is not broken. This is because the gasses that are filling the space between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, it could ruin your interior and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home as well as mold growth. It is crucial to address any problems caused by leaking windows immediately to prevent damage.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical cause of leaks. Utilizing silicone caulk can help restore the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame and also the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows leaking. Check that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, particularly after a heavy downpour. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing on the bottom of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.
Finally, it's essential to ensure that your drip cap isn't missing or decaying. A rotted or damaged drip cap can allow water to enter the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing drip caps isn't difficult, and it's typically a simple task of purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into the correct position.
A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can utilize a special tool to measure the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll require replacement. This is a cost-effective repair however it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause a variety of issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It could also mean that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn away. There are fortunately, a few ways to correct the issue.
To fix your window properly, you need to set up a workspace that is well-lit. Begin by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters and drips that might fall off the windows while you work.
You should also make use of a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to start working on your uPVC windows, start by marking where the hinge channel should be placed. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.
Install the hinge channel once the holes have been filled. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb, and that you drill the holes for the new screws about one quarter inch away from the original locations.
Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle and order a replacement online or bring the old one in to a hardware store for matching. Remove the setscrew from the shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to be locked onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC window should close smoothly.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have broken or are not functioning correctly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security issue and can also stop your home from staying warm or cold. It's simple to find a new hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to ensure that you have the correct hinge for your windows.
The hinges have to be identical in size to fit into the window frame. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are specialised types of hinges for windows that can be used on other types of frames like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding typical issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, for example, not closing properly.
Your window hinges could be slack or stiff due to a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges aren't tightened enough. You can test this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust it by twisting it in any direction until you have the desired result.
If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your window hinges and recommend the best solution for your needs. We can replace your 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 component of home security. They make it very difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it's an simple fix and you don't need to replace the whole window.
Most of the time, it's a minor issue that could have been avoided when you had regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of having problems.
Modern
upvc window repair windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose of the handle over a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, but when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every couple of times a year.
