UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. As they get older, however, issues can occur that need to be fixed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows with ease. It is also less expensive than a brand new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to ensure the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.
Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most common solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a short period of time. For more severe 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 is available at most hardware stores and can be purchased for about $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools required for the job.
If your lower or upper sash is difficult to raise it's because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. Thankfully, this is a simple repair that can be accomplished using a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be easily replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at a majority of home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked into place with ease. If you have a double or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes isn't broken. The reason for this is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window and must not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, this can cause damage to your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To avoid damage, it's crucial to fix any problems caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Using silicone caulking can help bring the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.
Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is blocked drainage holes or a defective flashing. Verify that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. Also, you should look at the windows' flashing to ensure it is well-sealed.
It's also essential to check that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotted drip cap or one that's not there can allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It's as easy as purchasing a new one, and nailing it in place.
A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to test the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will have to replace them. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't shut properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It can also be a sign that the windows were not properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer effective. Fortunately, there are a few options to fix the problem.
The first step is to set up a workspace in a room that has plenty of light to help repair your window in a timely manner. Start 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, soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will help prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. If you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by marking where the hinge channel must be situated. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.
Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and drill the new screwholes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.
Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order a replacement or bring it to a hardware shop to find a suitable replacement. Finally, back out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it out so that the set screw can secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should be closing without difficulty.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't functioning properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause problems with security and prevent your home from remaining warm or cool. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's essential to ensure that you have the right type of hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges need to be of the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames such as wooden frames. The correct type of hinge will help you to avoid common problems with your windows.
Your window hinges may be loose or stiff for a variety of reasons. The hinges might not be sufficiently tightened. To check this, use a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the hinge's end. Loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust it by turning it in any direction until you get the desired result.
Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can provide a quick fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the most suitable solution. We can replace hinges on windows, retension them or install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.
Locks that aren't working
UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking in. When Enfield double glazing repairs fails, it can be frustrating, but it's an easy repair 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. This is why we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of having problems.
Modern uPVC windows have locks that operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, but when they are not maintained properly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times per year.
If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as quickly as it used to or if the lock doesn't work properly, there could be an issue with the locking gearboxes in the frame. It can be difficult to access this because it requires the removal of seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage these).
A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able to diagnose this fault quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This quick and easy fix can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to purchase new windows.