10 Window Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend

UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems can occur that need to be addressed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repairs can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can also be much cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the necessary skills, experience and equipment to get the best results. This will ensure your fracture is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.





Small cracks in glass can be fixed with a range of home-based solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most popular products that will hold cracked glass in place for a time. For cracks that are more extensive, tape may need be extended on both sides.

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 around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the right tool for the job such as a soldering iron.

If you find that your lower or upper sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is another simple repair that can be done at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed or caulked into place with ease. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window is not broken. The reason is because the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window. They should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can ruin the interior of your house and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home as well as mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical reason for leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and stop leakage. Look for gaps and cracks between the window frame and also the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows leaking. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing on the bottom of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.

It's also essential to check that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that's missing will allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky isn't difficult. It's as easy as buying the new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a specific 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 require replacement. It's a costly fix, but worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause various problems, such as drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy costs. It could also mean that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. There are several things you can try to solve the issue.

The first step is to prepare an area with ample natural light to help repair your window in a timely manner. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window during your work.

You should also use a white cloth that has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. This will stop any color stains from appearing on your windows. When you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be situated. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.

After the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and drill the screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle protruding from underside of the handle and then order a replacement online or bring the old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take the setscrew from the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should shut smoothly.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't functioning properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This can cause an issue with security and stop your home from remaining warm or cool. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, like wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, like not closing properly.

There are several reasons why your window hinges may have become stiff or loose. The hinges might not be tightened enough. You can test this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in any direction until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for you. We can replace the window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for a long time to come.

Faulty locks

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of your home security, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be a frustrating experience when a lock fails however, you don't have to replace the entire window.

It's often a minor issue that could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our yearly maintenance package in order to minimize the chance of any issues.

The majority of modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks that work by pushing the handle's nose 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 could begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't work correctly, it could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. This can be difficult to access since it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window, and taking the handle off.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to quickly identify the issue and will then be able to repair the damaged gearbox for locking with an exact replacement. This is a fast and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.