Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. However, as they get older, problems can arise which need fixing. This could include damaged hinges, handles, or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows with ease. It’s less expensive than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major issue. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress and less effective protection against cold weather, and even the possibility of structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the required skills, experience and equipment to get the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets any worse, and you don’t need to replace your window unit or glass.
Small cracks in glass can be fixed with a range of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a short time. For cracks that are more extensive, the tape may need to extend beyond the crack on both sides to achieve the best results.
Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It’s available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the tools needed for the job.
If you notice that your lower or upper sash is having difficulty lifting it is most likely due to the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be made with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is another simple repair that can be done at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. If you have a double glazing– or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is because the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for improving the efficiency of the window. This must not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can ruin the interior of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and the growth of mold. It’s important to address any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit damage.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a common reason for leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows leaking. Verify that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. It’s also recommended to examine the flashing on the top of your window and ensure that it’s sealed properly.
It’s also important to check that your drip cap doesn’t have any decay or is missing. A rotten drip cap or one that is missing can allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It’s as simple as buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.
A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can use a tool to test your windows’ water-tightness and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they’ll need to be replaced. It’s a costly fix, but worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.
Sagging
If your windows do not shut properly, it could cause a variety of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could be a sign that the windows weren’t properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant has stopped working. There are fortunately, a few things you can do to correct the issue.
The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space with ample natural light to repair your window correctly. Start by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows while you work.
Use a white cloth soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. When you’re ready to start working on your uPVC windows, start by making a note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be located. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.
Once the holes have been filled, you can install the hinge channel. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb and make sure you drill the new screw holes about one quarter inch away from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle. You can then order an alternative online or bring your old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Finally, back out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator and smooth it out so that the set screw is able to secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should close easily.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren’t working properly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This could be a security risk and could also hinder your home from staying warm or cold. It is easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC window. But, it’s crucial to ensure that you have the right type of hinge for your windows.
The hinges have to be the same size in order to fit inside the frame of the window. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common problems that many homeowners have with their windows, such as not closing properly.
There are several reasons why your window hinges could be loose or stiff. The hinges may not be properly tightened. To test this, take an electric screwdriver to find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way.
If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and offer you suggestions on the best solution. We can replace the window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for the long haul.
The locks are not working properly
UPVC window doctor locks and mechanism are a very important part of your home security, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. It can be a hassle when a lock fails however, you don’t have to replace the entire window.
It’s usually a minor issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend that you have your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of problems.
Modern uPVC windows have 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 if they are not maintained properly, over time they could begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren’t opening or shut as easily as they used to or when the lock isn’t functioning properly, uPVC window repairs it’s likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. This is often difficult to access as it requires removing the seals that surround the window frame and removing the handle.
A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able detect the issue quickly, and then replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism using a precise replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.