It's Time To Expand Your Window Repairs Options

UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. However, as they age problems may arise that require fixing. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.

Wooden  window repairs  can be fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It can be cheaper than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in uPVC windows can be a serious problem. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress and less effective protection against cold temperatures and the possibility of structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local repair or builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames and can demonstrate the experience, skills and tools required to deliver the best results. This will ensure that the crack is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that will hold cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For cracks that are more extensive, the tape may need to extend beyond the crack on both sides to achieve the optimal results.

Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. The majority of hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the equipment required for the job.

If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise it's because the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is another simple repair that can be done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-pane window, be sure to check that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is because the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for enhancing the energy efficiency of the window. They should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit damage.

The most common reason for window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help bring the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks between the window frame and also the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is blocked drainage holes or a defective flashing. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clear and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing around the bottom of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

Finally, it's essential to ensure that your drip cap isn't broken or rotten. A damaged or missing drip cap will let water in the window from above, causing damage to your home's structure. Replacing a leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It's as simple as purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it in place.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to measure your windows' water-tightness and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they'll require replacement. It's a costly repair however it's worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it can result in a myriad of problems, including condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could also mean that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant is worn out. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to correct the issue.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to help repair your window in a timely manner. Begin by laying down newspaper or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters and drips that might fall off the windows as you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will stop any color stains from appearing on your windows. Mark the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are constructed from wood). Be sure to scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.

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

Next, measure the length of the spindle protruding from underside of the handle and order an alternative online or bring the old one in to a hardware store for matching. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Now your uPVC windows should be closing smoothly.

Broken Hinges

There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't working properly. This could create problems with security and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. You can easily purchase an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's essential to ensure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be of the same width 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 window hinges for other types of frames such as wooden frames. The right type of hinge will allow you to avoid common problems with your windows.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be tightened enough. To check this, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the hinge's end. Release it. After that, you can adjust it by turning it in any direction until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges, and give you suggestions on the best solution. We can repair or replace the window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for years to come.

Locks that aren't working

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

Sometimes, the issue is a small issue that could have been avoided when you had regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend that you have your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of problems.

Most modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at 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 few times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes inside the frame. Accessing this can be tricky since it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be cautious not to damage these).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly and replace the broken locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This quick and simple fix can save you hundreds of dollars by not the need to purchase new windows.