uPVC windows are energy efficient and can aid in reducing heating costs. However, as they age, problems can arise which need fixing. This could include damaged hinges, handles or locks.
Wooden window repairs can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It can also be cheaper than a new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Leaving them unrepaired can cause water infiltration as well as less effective barriers against cold weather and even the possibility of structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience as well as the right equipment to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it gets any worse and you don’t need to replace the window glass or window unit.
There are numerous home solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a short time. For more severe cracks the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides for best results.
Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. It is available at most hardware stores and can be purchased for around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the correct tool for the job like a soldering iron.
If you find that your upper or lower sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a different repair that is done at home. The majority of home centers have a drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily caulked or nailed in place. Lastly, if you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to make sure that one of the panes are not broken. This is due to the gases that fill the space between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, it could ruin your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home, as well as the growth of mold. To avoid damage, it’s crucial to address any issues caused by windows that leak immediately.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical cause of leaks. The use of silicone caulking can improve the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame and also the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.
Another common reason for leaking windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. Check that the drainage holes haven’t been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It’s also recommended to examine the flashing on the lower part of your window to 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 damaged or damaged drip cap can let water in the window from above and cause damage to your home’s structure. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn’t difficult. It’s as simple as purchasing a new one, and nailing it in place.
It’s an excellent idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness with a professional. They can utilize a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will need to replace them. This is a costly repair but it’s worth it for the comfort and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don’t close properly, it can lead to a number issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows weren’t properly installed or the sealant has worn away. There are a few options you can do to solve the issue.
The first step is to prepare an area that has plenty of light to help repair your window correctly. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from drips or splinters that may come from the window while you work.
Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mix of detergent and water. This will prevent 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 using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.
Once the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Make sure that it is centered on the window replacement near me jamb and make sure you drill the new screw holes about quarter inch away from the original locations.
Then, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring the old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then file it flat so the set screw is able to be secured to the shaft (photo). Then, your uPVC windows should close smoothly.
Broken Hinges
There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren’t working correctly. This can be a security issue and can also stop your home from staying warm or cold. It’s simple to find an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It is essential to select the right hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges need to be of the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding typical issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.
There are several reasons why the hinges on your windows have become stiff or loose. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. To check, uPVC repairs use a screwdriver to find the friction screw on the hinge’s end. Loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.
If your UPVC window hinges aren’t functioning as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your hinges for your windows and provide you with the best solution for you. We can replace window hinges, retension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.
The locks are not working properly
UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential part of your home security, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be a frustrating experience 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 avoided with regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our yearly maintenance plan to reduce the likelihood of having any issues.
Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate 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, however if they are not maintained properly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows don’t open and shut as easily as they used to, or If the lock isn’t functioning properly, it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox within the window frame. It can be difficult to access as it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window and then removing the handle.
A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to identify the problem quickly and will then be able to repair the failed locking gearbox with a precise replacement. This is a fast and easy repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.