UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows are energy efficient and aid in reducing heating costs. However, as they age problems may arise that require repair. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.
Wooden window repair can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows can be a serious issue. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in repairing uPVC frames. They should possess the necessary knowledge and experience as well as the right equipment to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired before it worsens and you don’t have to replace your window glass or unit.
There are many home-based remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that can hold broken glass in place for a while. For deeper cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides to get the optimal results.
Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It’s available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the correct equipment for the job, such as a soldering iron.
If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it’s most likely because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. This is an easy fix that can be done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a second 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 in place. Check that the glass of double or triple-paned window isn’t cracked. The reason is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for enhancing the energy efficiency of the window. They should not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, it could ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. It’s important to address any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible to limit the damage.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent reason for leaks. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. It is also essential to look for cracks and gaps around the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.
Another reason for leaky windows is blocked drainage holes or faulty flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clear and unclogged, especially in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It’s also recommended to examine the flashing on the lower part of your window to ensure it’s sealed correctly.
It is also important to check that your drip cap isn’t broken or rotten. A rotten drip cap or one that is missing allows water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn’t a daunting task. It’s as easy as purchasing an entirely new one and window repair nailing it into place.
It’s an excellent idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a qualified. They can utilize a special tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows and make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you’ll need to replace them. It’s a costly repair however it’s is worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don’t close properly, it can lead to a number issues, such as condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could be a sign that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant is no longer effective. There are several things you can try to fix the problem.
The first step is to prepare an area with plenty of natural light to fix your window properly. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from drips or splinters that might be coming from the window as you work.
Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made from wood). Be sure to scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.
Install the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure it’s centered on the window jamb and that you drill the new holes approximately a quarter inch from the original locations.
Next, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order an alternative or bring it to a hardware shop for a replacement. Remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to be locked onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should shut 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 can cause an issue with security and stop your home from staying cool or warm. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It’s crucial to choose the right type for your windows.
The hinges must be the same size to fit inside the window frame. The most commonly used hinge used in Upvc windows is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, such as not closing properly.
The hinges on your windows could be slack or stiff for several reasons. The most common reason is that the hinges aren’t properly securing. You can test this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by twisting it in any direction until you get the desired result.
Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window’s hinges aren’t functioning properly. We can provide an immediate fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can repair or replace your window hinges or retension them, or even install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.
Locks that aren’t working
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial element of security for your home. They make it very difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it is a quick and simple fix and you don’t need to replace the whole window.
Sometimes, the issue is an issue that could have been prevented by regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend that you have your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of issues.
Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle 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 in a timely manner, 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 aren’t opening and shut as easily as they used to or when the lock isn’t functioning properly, it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch these).
A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to buy new windows.