UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be fixed. This could include damaged hinges, handles, or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows fairly easily. It's less expensive than purchasing a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the required skills and experience as well as the right equipment to ensure the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets 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. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in position for a short time. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.
You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix damaged or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the correct equipment for the job, like a soldering iron.
If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily, it's likely due to the fact that the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. Mile End double glazing repairs is a simple fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be replaced at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be nailed and caulked into place with ease. Make sure that the glass of double-paned or triple-paned window isn't damaged. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window and should not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could cause damage to the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows right away to minimize the damage.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent reason for leaks. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.
Another common reason for leaking windows is a blocked drainage hole or a defective flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clear and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.
It's also important to make sure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotted drip cap or one that is missing will allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't an arduous task and is usually a straightforward process of purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into the correct position.
It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can use a tool to determine your windows' water-tightness and make sure they are in compliance with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll have to be replaced. This is a costly fix, but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.
Sagging
If your windows aren't closing properly it can cause a number of issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant is worn out. There are fortunately, a few options to correct the issue.
To fix your window properly it is necessary to create a space with plenty of natural light. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that could be leaking from the window while 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. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.
Once the holes have been filled, you can put in the hinge channel. 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 order a replacement or bring it to a hardware shop for matching. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw can lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should close without difficulty.
Broken Hinges
There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't working correctly. This could create an issue with security and stop your home from remaining warm or cool. It's simple to find a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.
The hinges have to be the same size to fit in the window frame. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames such as wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners have with their windows, like not closing properly.
The hinges of your window could be stiff or loose due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be tightened enough. You can check this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way.
If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your window hinges and provide you with the best solution for your needs. We can repair or 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 a crucial element 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 is often an issue that could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend getting your uPVC windows checked regularly by our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of issues.
Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose end of the handle on the wedge block, then turning it to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, but if they are not maintained in a timely manner, they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times per year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening and shut as quickly as they used to or if the lock is not functioning properly, it's likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult as it requires the removing of the seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be cautious not to damage the seals).
A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able to identify the problem quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.