5 Window Repairs Tips You Must Know About For 2023

UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be fixed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repair can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can also be much less expensive than a brand new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress as well as less effective protection against cold weather and even the possibility of structural damage. It is essential to locate an experienced local builder or repair service that specializes in fixing uPVC frames and has the skills, experience and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it worsens and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

There are many home-based remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that can keep cracked glass in place for a time. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.

Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. It is available at most hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the proper tool for the job for example, a soldering tool.

If you find that your lower or upper sash has difficulty raising, it is likely because the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. It's an easy fix that can be made with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a different repair that is done at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at most home centers and can be nailed or put in place using caulk. Check that the glass of double glazing-paned or triple-paned window is not cracked. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the energy 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 can also affect the structure of your home and cause mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows immediately to prevent the damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common reason for leaks. The use of silicone caulking can restore the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and prevent water leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame, and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are the other two typical causes of windows that leak. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly after a heavy rainstorm. 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 make sure that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotten or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn't difficult. It's as easy as buying the new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you'll have to replace them. This is a cost-effective repair but it's worth it for the comfort and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could lead to a number of problems, such as drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy costs. It can also be a sign that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant has stopped working. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with ample natural light to fix your window properly. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window during your work.

You will also want to use a white cloth which has been soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure you don't leave any stains of color on your windows. When you are ready to work on your uPVC windows, start by marking the location where the hinge channel needs to be placed. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made of wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and then drill the new screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one to the hardware store to purchase a new. Remove the setscrew from the shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC windows should be closing easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or are not functioning correctly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause an issue with security and stop your home from being cool or warm. It's simple to purchase an entirely 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 have to be of the same width to fit into the window frame. The most common type of hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.

The hinges of your window may be loose or stiff due to a variety of reasons. One common cause is that the hinges are not tightened enough. To check this, use a screwdriver and locate the friction screw at the hinge's end. Loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way until you have the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work properly. We can provide an immediate fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can replace your window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for the long haul.

Faulty locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial part of home security. They make it difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. It can be frustrating when a lock fails but you don't have to replace the entire window.

It's often an issue that could have been easily prevented by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend getting your uPVC windows checked regularly by our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of problems.

Modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate 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 should they not be maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every couple of times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as easily as it used to, or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. This is often difficult to access because 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 has the knowledge to quickly identify the issue and will then be able replace the failed locking gearbox with an exact replacement. This simple and quick fix could save you hundreds by avoiding having to buy new windows.