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.
DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows relatively easily. It can also be cheaper than a new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. It is essential to locate a local repair or builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames and has the skills, experience and tools needed to produce the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired before it worsens and you don’t need to replace the window glass or window unit.
Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of DIY solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used products to hold cracked glass in place for a brief time. For more severe cracks the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides for optimal results.
Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right tool for the job such as a soldering iron.
If you find that your lower or upper sash is having difficulty lifting it is most likely due to the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. It’s a simple repair that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily replaced at home. Rot-free drip caps are readily available at many home centers and can be secured with nails and put in place using caulk. Verify that the glass in double glazed window repairs near me-paned or triple-paned window isn’t broken. This is due to the gases that are filling the space between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can ruin the interior of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. To prevent the damage, it’s essential to repair any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as you can.
The most common reason for window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help restore the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. It’s also important to check for cracks and gaps in the frame as well as in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are also common causes of leaking windows. It’s crucial to make sure the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. You should also look at the window’s flashing to ensure that it’s well-sealed.
It’s also important to check that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotted or damaged drip cap can allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a drip cap isn’t difficult and usually a straightforward process of purchasing a new one and nailing it into the correct position.
A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine your windows’ water-tightness and ensure that they comply with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will have to replace them. It’s a costly repair however it’s worthwhile to ensure the safety and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don’t close properly, it could lead to a number problems, including condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It could be an indication that the windows were not properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer working. There are a few options you can do to resolve the issue.
To fix your window properly, you need to set up a workspace with plenty of natural light. Begin 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.
Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mixture of water and detergent. This will ensure you don’t leave any stains of color on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes using epoxy (for upvc window repair near me windows) or wood filler (if the frames are constructed from wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.
Once the holes are filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb. Also, make sure make sure you drill the new holes approximately one quarter inch away from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle and then order a replacement online or bring your old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat 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 are damaged or aren’t functioning properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause a security problem and prevent your home from staying cool or warm. It’s easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it’s important to ensure you have the correct hinge for your windows.
The hinges have to be the same size in order to fit in the window frame. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are specialised types of hinges for windows that can be used on other types of frames like wooden frames. The proper hinge can help you avoid common issues with your windows.
The hinges of your window may be loose or stiff for several reasons. The hinges may not have been tightened enough. You can check this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge, and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way until you get the desired result.
If your UPVC window hinges aren’t working as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for replace you. We can replace the window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for years to come.
Faulty Locks
UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. 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 which could have been averted if you have had regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our yearly maintenance package in order to minimize the chance of any problems.
Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose of the handle over a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are very effective in keeping the window locked, but over time they can start to fail if they’re not properly maintained. We recommend lubricating with WD-40 every couple of times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren’t opening and shut as quickly as they used to, or If the lock isn’t functioning properly, it is likely that there is a problem with the gearbox that locks the window frame. It can be difficult to access because it requires removing the seals around the frame of the window, and taking the handle off.
A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to diagnose this fault quickly and will then be able to replace the failed locking gearbox with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.