Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age, problems can arise which need fixing. This could include damaged hinges, handles, or locks.
Wooden window repairs can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It’s less expensive than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. If they are not repaired, they can cause water infiltration and less effective protection against cold temperatures and the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills, experience and equipment to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse and you won’t have to replace your window unit or glass.
There are numerous home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular products used to keep glass that has cracked in position for a short time. For more severe cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides for best results.
You can also use two-part epoxy to repair damaged or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the equipment required to complete the task.
If you find that your lower or upper sash has difficulty raising, it is likely because the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. This is an easy fix that can be done with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is a different repair that is done at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed and put in place using caulk. Verify that the glass in double glazed window repairs or triple-paned window isn’t damaged. This is due to the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be kept, not escaping.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window repair is leaking, it could ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows immediately to prevent damage.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It’s also important to check for gaps and cracks around the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.
Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It’s also a good idea to inspect the flashing on the bottom of your window and ensure that it’s sealed properly.
Finally, it’s essential to check that your drip cap isn’t broken or rotten. A rotten or damaged drip cap can let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It’s as easy as buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.
It’s also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. They can utilize a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows don’t pass the test, you will have to replace them. It’s a costly fix, but worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.
Sagging
If your windows aren’t closing properly, it could cause many problems, such as drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy bills. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant is worn out. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem.
To fix your window properly it is essential to set up a workspace with plenty of natural light. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any drips or splinters that may come from the window while you work.
It is also recommended to use a white cloth that has been immersed in a solution of water and detergent. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. When you are ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, start by marking the location where the hinge channel needs to be placed. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.
After the holes have been filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Be sure to center it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.
Next, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can order an replacement or take it to a hardware shop for a replacement. Finally, back out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and smooth it so that the set screw will be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should close easily.
Broken Hinges
You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren’t functioning correctly. This can be a security problem and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It’s important that you use the correct type of hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges need to be the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most popular type of hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, such as not closing properly.
There are several reasons why your window hinges may have become slack or stiff. One of the most common causes is that the hinges aren’t properly securing. To check this, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the hinge’s end. Loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.
If your UPVC window repair hinges are not working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your window hinges and provide you with the best solution for you. We can replace hinges on windows or retension them, or even install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.
Faulty Locks
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential element of security for your home. They make it very 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 whole window.
Sometimes, the issue is a minor issue that could have been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest getting your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of problems.
The majority of 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 effective in locking the window, but if they are not maintained properly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.
If you find that your uPVC window isn’t opening and closing as smoothly as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn’t work properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. This can be difficult to access as it requires the removal of the seals that surround the window frame and taking the handle off.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism using a precise replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.