Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. As they age, however, problems can occur that need to be fixed. This could include damaged hinges, handles or uPVC window repairs locks.
Wooden window repairs can be fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can also be much less expensive than a brand new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. It is crucial to find an experienced local builder or repair service that specialises in repairing uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and tools required to deliver the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you don’t need to replace your window unit or glass.
Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of DIY solutions. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most popular solutions to hold glass damaged in position for a short period of time. For cracks that are more extensive the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides to get the best results.
Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. This is available from most hardware stores and can be purchased for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right equipment for the job, like a soldering iron.
If you find that your lower or upper sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords connected to the sashweights have been damaged. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that can be made with the help of an extension ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that is done at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Lastly, if you have a double glazing repair or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes are not broken. This is because the gases that fill the space between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be kept, not escaping.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your home and cause mold growth. It is crucial to address any issues caused by leaky windows immediately to prevent the damage.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. The use of silicone caulking can bring the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. It’s also important to check for cracks and gaps around the frame, as well as in the brick or stone walls that surround your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing are the other two typical causes of windows that leak. Check that the drainage holes haven’t been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It’s also a good idea to inspect the flashing around the bottom of your window and ensure that it’s sealed properly.
It’s also important to make sure that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A damaged or missing drip cap will let water in the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a drip cap isn’t a complicated job, and it’s generally a simple process of purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into place.
It’s recommended to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. They can use a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they’ll require replacement. This is a costly fix but it’s worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.
Sagging
If your windows aren’t closing properly it can cause a number of issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren’t properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer effective. Fortunately, there are a few options to fix the problem.
To fix your window properly it is necessary to set up a workspace with ample natural light. Begin by laying out newspaper or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips that might fall off the windows while you work.
You should also use a white cloth that has been submerged in a solution containing water and detergent. This will stop any stains of color from appearing on your windows. Note the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.
After the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Make sure it is aligned with the window jamb and that you drill the holes for the new screws about a quarter inch from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order an replacement or take it to a local hardware store to find a suitable replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw can secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should close easily.
Broken Hinges
You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or not working properly. This could be a security risk and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. It’s easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It’s crucial to choose 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 common type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the typical issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, for example, not closing properly.
There are a variety of reasons your window hinges may have become stiff or loose. One common cause is that the hinges are not tightened enough. You can check this 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 twisting it in any direction until you have the desired result.
If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, you can contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the best solution. 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 a long time to come.
Faulty Locks
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial part of security for your home. They make it extremely difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. It can be frustrating when a lock fails but you don’t need to replace the entire window.
Most of the time, it’s a minor issue which could have been averted if you have had regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend getting your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of issues.
Modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, but if they are not maintained correctly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a couple of times a year.
If you notice your uPVC window isn’t opening and closing as smoothly as it used to or if the lock doesn’t function properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes inside the frame. It can be difficult to access as it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame of the window, and taking off the handle.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly and replace the broken locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.