5 Must-Know Window Repairs-Practices You Need To Know For 2023

UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age, issues can develop that require fixing. This can include faulty hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repairs can be fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It is also less expensive than a brand new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in windows made of uPVC can be a serious problem. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress, less effective protection against cold weather and even the potential for structural damage. It is essential to locate a local repair or builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver 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.

There are a variety of home solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a time. For more severe cracks the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides to achieve the best results.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair damaged or cracked glasses. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be purchased for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior uPVC window repairs to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right tool for the job, such as a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily it's because the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that is done 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 a majority of home centers and can be nailed and caulked in place with ease. Also, if you have a double or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window. They should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can cause damage to your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. It's important to address any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize the damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. It's also important to look for cracks and gaps in the frame as well in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is blocked drainage holes or faulty flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing on the lower part of your window to ensure it's sealed correctly.

It is also important to make sure that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A drip cap that is rotten or one that is missing can allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as simple as purchasing the new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows to make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will have to replace them. It's a costly fix but it's worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows aren't closing properly, it could cause many issues, such as drafts condensation, and an increase in energy costs. It could also be an indication that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant is worn out. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to correct the issue.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space with plenty of natural light to repair your window in a timely manner. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from drips or splinters that may come from the window while you work.

You should also use a white cloth which has been immersed in a solution of water and detergent. This will prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. If you're ready to start working on your uPVC windows, start by marking where the hinge channel should be located. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are constructed from wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes have been filled. Make sure you center 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 that protrudes from the underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement online or bring the old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then file it flat so the set screw is able to be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or not working properly. This can cause problems with security and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to ensure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges must be the same size to fit into the frame of the window. The most common type of hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 18mm or 15mm UPVC window replacement hinge. However, there are specialised types of window hinges for other types of frames such as wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common problems that many homeowners face with their windows, such as not closing properly.

There are several reasons why your window hinges could have become slack or stiff. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't properly securing. You can test this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you get the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work properly. We can offer a quick fix. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your hinges for your windows and provide you with the best option for you. We can replace hinges on windows, retension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential part of security for your home. They make it difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it's an easy fix and you do not need to replace the whole window.

It's usually an issue that is minor and could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of problems.

Most modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are extremely effective in keeping the window locked, but over time, they could begin to fail if they are not properly maintained. We suggest lubricating with WD-40 every couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening and shut as quickly as they used to or when the lock isn't functioning properly, it's likely that there is a problem with the gearbox that locks the window frame. This is often difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals around the window frame and removing the handle.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able to detect the issue quickly, and then replace the broken locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a quick and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.