UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they get older, however, issues may arise that require to be fixed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.
DIY people can fix wooden windows with ease. It's cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and tears in windows made of uPVC can be a major issue. If they are not repaired, they can cause water infiltration as well as less effective protection against cold temperatures and the potential for structural damage. It is crucial to find an experienced local builder or repair service who specializes in repairing uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired before it gets any worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.
Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of DIY solutions. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most common solutions to hold glass damaged in position for a short duration. For deeper cracks, tape may require to be extended on both sides.
Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the right equipment for the job, for example, a soldering tool.
If you find that your upper or lower sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords attached to the sashweights are damaged. This is an easy fix that is done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be easily replaced at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. If you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to check that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, it could 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. It is crucial to address any issues caused by leaky windows immediately to prevent damage.
The most common reason for window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. It's also important to look for gaps and cracks around the frame as well as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing are also typical causes of windows leaking. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clear and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. You should also check the flashing around your window to ensure that it's well-sealed.
It's also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A rotten or damaged drip cap can allow water to enter the window from above, causing damage to your home's structure. Replacing a drip cap isn't a complicated job and usually a straightforward process of buying a new one and nailing it into place.
A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows to make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you will need to replace them. It's a costly repair but it's worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't close properly, it can result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could also be a sign that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant has stopped working. There are a few things you can do to solve the issue.
To repair your window correctly, you need to set up a work space that is well-lit. 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 as you work.
Use a white cloth soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.
Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and then drill the new screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.
Then, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can order a replacement or bring it to a local hardware store for a replacement. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it so that the set screw is able to be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should be closing easily.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't functioning properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause a security problem and prevent your home from being cool or warm. It's simple to find a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It's important that you use the right hinge for your windows.
The hinges must be the same size to fit into the window frame. The most popular type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are special kinds of window hinges that are suitable for other types of frames such as wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.
The hinges of your window could be slack or stiff for several reasons. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.
If your UPVC window hinges aren't working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Hillingdon double glazing repair will evaluate the condition of the hinges on your windows and advise you on the best solution for you. We can replace window hinges, retension them or install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC windows are secure and safe.
The locks are not working properly
UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be frustrating when a lock malfunctions, but you don't need to replace the entire window.
It's often an issue that could have easily been avoided with regular maintenance. This is why we recommend having your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of having problems.
Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose end of the handle onto a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, but should they not be maintained properly, over time they could begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.
If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as quickly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes within the frame. This can be difficult to access as it requires the removal of the seals around the frame of the window and then removing the handle.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to diagnose this fault quickly and will then be able to repair the gearbox that failed to lock with a exact replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.
