What To Look For In The Window Repairs That s Right For You

UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. As they get older, however, issues can occur that need to be addressed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows with ease. It can be cheaper than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in uPVC windows could 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 an expert local builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience as well as the right equipment to ensure the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it gets any worse and you don't have to replace your window glass or unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed with a range of home-based solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most commonly used products that can hold broken glass in place for a while. For more severe cracks, the tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair damaged or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the equipment needed to complete the task.

If your upper or lower sash is difficult to raise it's because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. This is an easy fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be repaired at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window is not broken. This is due to the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency. They should be retained, not escaping.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could ruin the interior of your house and cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and the growth of mold. To minimize damage, it's important to repair any issues caused by windows that leak immediately.

The most common reason for window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and prevent leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. Also, you should examine the window's flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

It's also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotted or missing drip cap will let water in the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing a drip cap isn't difficult and is usually a straightforward process of purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into the right spot.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows to make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will have to replace them. It's a costly fix but it's worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could lead to many issues, such as drafts condensation and an increase in energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant has stopped working. Fortunately, there are a few options to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room that has plenty of light to fix your window in a timely manner. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window as you work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. Mark the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made of wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Once the holes are filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and then drill the new screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

Next, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle and then order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and smooth it out so that the set screw is able to lock onto the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or are not functioning correctly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window replacement. This could be a security risk and could also hinder your home from being warm or cold. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right type for your windows.

The hinges need to be identical in size to fit into the frame of the window. The most popular type of hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the common issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

There are many reasons why your window hinges may have become slack or UPVC repairs stiff. One of the most common causes is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge. Loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work correctly. We can provide a quick fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your window hinges and recommend the best option for you. We can repair or replace your window hinges and retension them. We can also install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC windows are safe and secure.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of your home security, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. It can be frustrating when a lock fails, UPVC repairs but you don't need to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's a small issue that could have been prevented when you had regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose of the handle on a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, but when 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 aren't opening or shut as easily as they used too, or when the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. This is often difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame of the window, and removing the handle.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and then be able to replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a exact replacement. This quick and easy fix can save you hundreds by avoiding the need to purchase new windows.