UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they get older, however, issues may arise that require to be addressed. This can be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows relatively easily. It is also less expensive than a brand new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can pose a serious problem. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress, less effective protection against cold weather, and even the potential for structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local builder or repair service that specializes in the repair of uPVC frames and has the skills, experience and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.
There are many home-based remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most common products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a brief duration. For deeper cracks, tape may need be extended on both sides.
Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be purchased at a cost of around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right equipment for the job, such as a soldering iron.
If you find that your upper or lower sash isn't lifting, it is likely because the cords connected to the sashweights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is another simple repair that can be completed at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Also, if you have a double or triple-paned window, be sure to check that one of the panes is not broken. This is due to the gases that fill the space between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.
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If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows immediately to prevent damage.
The most common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Check for cracks and gaps between the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. Check that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing that runs around the top of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.
It's also important to check that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotted drip cap or one that's not there allows water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky is not a difficult task. It's as easy as buying the new one and nailing it in place.
It's also a good 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 to make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. 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 could lead to many issues, including drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy bills. It could be an indication that the windows weren't properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer effective. There are several things you can do to solve the problem.
The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space that has plenty of light to repair your window properly. Begin by laying out newspaper or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows while you work.
You should also use a white cloth which has been immersed in a solution of detergent and water. 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 the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are made from wood). Make sure you smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.
Once the holes are filled, you can install the hinge channel. Make sure it is centered on the window jamb and make sure you drill the new screw holes about one quarter inch away from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle protruding from underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement online or bring the old one in to a hardware store for matching. Remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to be locked onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should close smoothly.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't working properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security problem and could also hinder your home from staying warm or cold. It's simple to purchase a new hinge for your uPVC windows. But, it's crucial to ensure you have the correct hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges must be of the same width to fit inside the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.
Your window hinges could be slack or stiff for several reasons. One common cause is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. To check this, use a screwdriver and locate the friction screw at the hinge's end. Loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.
Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your hinges for your windows and provide you with the best option for you. We can replace the window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for years to come.
Faulty locks
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important part of home security. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. It can be a hassle when a lock fails, however, you don't have to replace the entire window.
It's often an issue that is minor and could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our yearly maintenance program to minimize the chance of having any issues.
Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose of the handle onto the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, however when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times a year.
If you notice your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it used to, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there may be an issue with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. Accessing this can be tricky as it requires the removing 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 has the knowledge to identify the problem quickly and will then be able to repair the damaged gearbox for locking with a exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to purchase new windows.