uPVC windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. However, as they age problems can arise which need fixing. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.
Wooden window repair s can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can also be cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major issue. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. It is essential to locate an experienced local builder or repair service that specializes in fixing uPVC frames and can demonstrate the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your shattered window is repaired before it worsens and you don't have to replace the window glass or window unit.
There are a variety of home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used products to hold cracked glass in position for a short duration. For deeper cracks, tape might need to be extended on both sides.
Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. It is available at most hardware stores and can be bought for about $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the correct equipment for the job, such as a soldering iron.
If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise it's most likely because the cords that connect the sash's weights have been damaged. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is a second repair that can be completed at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at a majority of home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window is not broken. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the efficiency of the window. They must not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, this can cause damage to your interior and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. To avoid damage, it's crucial to repair any issues caused by windows that leak immediately.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical cause of leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. Check for cracks and gaps between the window frame and also the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.
Another reason for leaky windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. Check that the drainage holes haven't been blocked or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. It is also important to examine the window's flashing to ensure it is properly sealed.
Finally, it's essential to ensure that your drip cap isn't broken or damaged. A rotten drip cap or one that is missing allows water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap isn't a complicated job and generally a simple process of purchasing an entirely new one and putting it in place.
It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can employ a specific tool to determine the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you'll need to replace them. It's an expensive fix however it's worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows do not close properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It can also 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 fix the problem.
The first step is to set up a workspace in a room with ample natural light to repair your window in a timely manner. Start by laying down newspaper or a blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters or drips from the windows while you work.
Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. If you're ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be situated. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure to smooth out the hole that you have filled before it sets.
Once the holes are filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Make sure you center it on the window jamb and drill the screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle and order an alternative online or bring your old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and smooth it out so that the set screw can lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should shut easily.
Broken Hinges
You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't working properly. This could create a security problem and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. It's simple to purchase a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to make sure you have the right hinge for your windows.
The hinges must be the same size to fit inside 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 hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The correct type of hinge can help you avoid common problems with your windows.
There are many reasons why your window hinges may be loose or stiff. One of the most common causes is that the hinges are not sufficiently tightened. You can test this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in any direction until you have the desired result.
Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working properly. We can offer a quick fix. Our experts will assess the condition of your window hinges and advise you on the best option for you. We can replace hinges on windows and retension them. We can also install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.
Locks that aren't working
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial part of home security. They make it very difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. When a lock fails, it can be a frustrating experience, but it's an easy repair and you don't need to replace the entire window.
It's often an issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of issues.
Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose of the handle onto the wedge block, then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they could begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or close as smoothly as they used too, or If the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and removing the handle (be cautious not to damage these).
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and will then be able replace the gearbox that failed to lock with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to purchase new windows.
