Why Is There All This Fuss About Window Repairs
UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc repair windows are energy efficient and can aid in reducing heating costs. However, as they get older, issues can develop that require repair. This can be due to damaged handles, hinges or locks.
Wooden window repairs can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can also be much cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of upvc repair frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to ensure the most effective results. This will ensure that the fracture is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.
There are many home-based solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most popular products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a brief duration. For deeper cracks, the tape may need to extend beyond the crack on both sides to get the best results.
Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to repair 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 mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the right tool for the job, like a soldering iron.
If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it's because the cords that connect the sash's weights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that is done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a different repair that can be done at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Verify that the glass in double-paned or triple-paned window is not damaged. The reason is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window and should not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, this can ruin your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To minimize the damage, it's essential to address any issues caused by leaky windows immediately.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Utilizing silicone caulk can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. Check for cracks and gaps between the window frame and also the stone or brick wall that surrounds your windows.
Another reason for leaky windows is blocked drainage holes or a defective flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. You should also check the flashing around your window to ensure that it is well-sealed.
Finally, it's essential to ensure that your drip cap isn't damaged or rotten. A rotted or damaged drip cap could allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing a drip cap isn't difficult, and it's usually a straightforward process of purchasing the new one and putting it in place.
A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can utilize a special tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. This is a costly fix however it's worth it for the comfort and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't close properly it can cause various issues, such as drafts condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also be a sign that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant is no longer working. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix the issue.
The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room that has plenty of light to fix your window correctly. Begin by laying out newspaper or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters or drips that might fall off the windows while you work.
Use a white cloth, uPVC repair soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, start by making a note of where the hinge channel must be placed. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for upvc repair frames) or wood filler. Make sure to smooth out the hole that you have filled before it sets.
Install the hinge channel once the holes are filled. Be sure to center it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.
Then, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can order an alternative or bring it to a local hardware store for a replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and file it flat so the set screw is able to lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, uPVC repair your uPVC window should be closing smoothly.
Broken Hinges
It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't functioning correctly. This can be a security risk and could also hinder your home from being warm or cold. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It is essential to select the right type for your windows.
The hinges need to be the same size to fit into the frame of the window. The most popular type of hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.
There are several reasons why your window hinges could be loose or stiff. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. You can test this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.
If your UPVC window hinges aren't working as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and give you suggestions on the best solution. We can replace hinges on windows, retension them or 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 security for your home. They make it difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. When a lock fails it could be frustrating, however it's an easy fix and you do not have to replace the entire window.
Often the problem can be an issue that could have been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend that you have your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of having problems.
Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very effective in keeping the window secure, but over time they can start to fail if not properly maintained - we recommend applying WD-40 to the lock a couple of times per year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening and shut as easily as they used too, or when the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is a problem with the gearbox that locks the window frame. It can be difficult to access as it requires the removal of the seals that surround the window frame and removing the handle.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to diagnose this fault quickly and be able to repair the failed locking gearbox with a exact replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to buy new windows.
