UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they get older, however, issues can occur that need to be fixed. This could include damaged handles, hinges or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows fairly easily. It's cheaper than purchasing a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration as well as less effective barriers against cold weather and even the possibility of structural damage. It is important to find an expert local repair or builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.
Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that will hold cracked glass in place for a while. For deeper cracks, tape may require to be extended on both sides.
You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing damaged or cracked glasses. This is available from most hardware stores and can be bought at a cost of around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the right tool 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 attached to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be replaced at home. The majority of home centers have a rot-free drip cap that can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Verify that the glass in double-paned or triple-paned window is not damaged. This is due to 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 could ruin the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your home and lead to the growth of mold. It's important to address any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit damage.
The most common cause of window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. The use of silicone caulking can restore the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps in the frame as well in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are also common causes of leaking windows. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are free and free of obstruction, particularly during heavy rainstorms. Also, you should look at the flashing around your window to ensure that it's well-sealed.
Lastly, it's important to check that your drip cap isn't broken or decaying. A rotted drip cap or one that is missing allows water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a drip cap isn't an arduous task, and it's usually a straightforward process of buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.
A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, you will need to replace them. It's a costly repair, but worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.
Sagging
If your windows do not close properly, it could lead to a number issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It could also mean that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant has worn away. There are fortunately, a few things you can do to correct the issue.
To fix your window properly it is essential to create a space with plenty of natural light. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window while you work.
You should also use a white cloth that has been immersed in a solution of water and detergent. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are made from wood). Be sure to smooth the hole that 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 holes approximately 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 alternative or bring it to a hardware shop to find a suitable replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and smooth it so that the set screw will lock onto the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should be closing smoothly.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are damaged 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 could cause a security problem and prevent your home from staying warm or cool. It's simple to find a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to make sure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.
window repairs must be the same size to fit inside the window frame. The most popular type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are specialised types of window hinges for other types of frames like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common issues that homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.
The hinges of your window could be slack or stiff for several reasons. The hinges may not have been tightened enough. To check this, use a screwdriver to find the friction screw on the hinge's end. Then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in either direction.
Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can provide an immediate fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and offer you suggestions on the best solution. We can replace hinges on windows and retension them. We can also install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.
Faulty locks
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important component of home security. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. If a lock fails, it can be a frustrating experience, but it's an simple fix and you don't need to replace the whole window.
It's often an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our yearly maintenance package in order to decrease the chances of any issues.
Most modern uPVC windows have locks that operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but when they are not maintained correctly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as quickly 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. This can be difficult to access because it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window, and taking off the handle.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able diagnose this fault quickly and replace the broken locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This simple and quick fix can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to buy new windows.