UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age, problems can arise which need fixing. This can include faulty handles, hinges or locks.
Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It can also be less expensive than a brand new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress as well as less effective protection against cold temperatures and the potential for structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local repair or builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and who has the experience, skills and equipment required to achieve the most effective 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.
Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most common products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a brief duration. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.
You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing damaged or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and can be bought at a cost of around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the proper equipment for the job, for example, a soldering tool.
If your lower or upper sash is difficult to raise, it’s likely because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be accomplished with the help of an extension ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a different repair that can be completed at home. The majority of home centers have a drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily caulked or UPVC repairs nailed to be fixed. Make sure that the glass of double glazing-paned or triple-paned window is not broken. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the efficiency of the window. This must not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your interior and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. It’s important to address any issues caused by leaky windows right away to minimize the damage.
The most common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. Check for cracks and gaps between the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.
Another common reason for leaking windows is blocked drainage holes or faulty flashing. Verify 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 lower part of your window to make sure it’s properly sealed.
It’s also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn’t have any rot or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that’s not there can allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a drip cap isn’t difficult and is usually a straightforward process of buying a new one and nailing it into the correct position.
A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can use a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will require replacement. It’s an expensive fix, but is worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows aren’t closing properly, it could cause a number of problems, such as drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It could be an indication that the windows were not properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer effective. There are a few options you can try to resolve the problem.
In order to repair your window properly it is essential to set up a work space 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 during your work.
You should also use a white cloth which has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any color stains on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are made of wood). Be sure to scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.
Once 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 new screw holes about quarter inch away from the original locations.
Next, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one in to a hardware store for matching. Then, remove the setscrew from the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should close without difficulty.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren’t functioning properly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can cause problems with security and prevent your home from remaining warm or cool. It’s easy to get a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It’s essential to make sure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges must be the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinge used in Upvc windows is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, such as wooden frames. The correct type of hinge can help you avoid the common issues with your windows.
Your window hinges may be loose or stiff due to a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges are not sufficiently tightened. To test this, take an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it either way until you achieve the desired result.
Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window’s hinges aren’t working correctly. We can provide a quick fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your window hinges and advise you on the best solution for your needs. We can replace window hinges or retension them, or even install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe.
Faulty locks
UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential part of your home security, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. It can be frustrating when a lock malfunctions, but you don’t need to replace the entire window.
It is often an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. This is why we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of having problems.
Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose end of the handle on a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but if they are not maintained properly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every couple of times a year.
If you’re noticing that your uPVC window isn’t opening or closing as smoothly as it used to or if the lock doesn’t function properly, there may be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. This can be difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame of the window, and taking the handle off.
A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and be able to repair the damaged gearbox for locking with an exact replacement. This simple and quick fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not the need to purchase new windows.