15 Window Repairs Benefits Everybody Should Be Able To

UPVC Window Repairs

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

Wooden window repair is fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It's cheaper than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can pose a serious problem. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress as well as less effective protection against cold temperatures and the risk of structural damage. It is essential to locate an experienced local builder or repair service that specialises in fixing uPVC frames and has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets any worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

There are numerous home solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most popular solutions to hold glass damaged in position for a short duration. For deeper cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides to achieve the best results.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair broken or cracked glasses. upvc window repair of hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the proper tool for the job, for example, a soldering tool.

If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily, it's likely because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be made using the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be replaced at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be secured with nails and put in place using caulk. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-paned window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is because the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window. They 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 house and cause mold growth. To prevent damage, it's important to repair any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.

One common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. 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 as in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is the drainage hole is blocked or faulty flashing. Verify that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing on the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

Finally, it's essential to make sure that your drip cap isn't broken or damaged. A drip cap that is rotten or one that is missing will allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn't difficult. It's as easy as purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into place.

It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. They can employ a tool to determine your windows' water-tightness and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows don't pass the test, you will need to replace them. It's a costly fix but it's is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant has worn out. Fortunately, there are some ways to fix the problem.

To fix your window properly, you need to create a space with plenty of natural light. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will stop any color stains from appearing on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill in 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 have been filled. Make sure that it is aligned with the window jamb and make sure you drill the new screw holes about a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can order an alternative or bring it to a shop selling hardware for matching. Finally, back out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it out so that the set screw will be secured to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC windows should close without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't working properly. This could create an issue with security and stop your home from staying cool or warm. It's simple to purchase a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It is essential to select the correct type of hinge for your windows.





The hinges must be identical in size to fit in the frame of the window. The most common hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are specialised types of window hinges for different types of frames, like wooden frames. The right type of hinge can help you avoid common issues with your windows.

Your window hinges could be stiff or loose for several reasons. The hinges might not be sufficiently tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it either way until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges and give you suggestions on the best solution. We can replace your window hinges, re-tension 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 an important part of security for your home. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it is a quick and easy repair and you don't have to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's a small issue that could have been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest having your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with locks that operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, however should they not be maintained in a timely manner, they may start to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or close as smoothly as they used to, or If the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is an issue with the gearbox that locks the window frame. Accessing this can be tricky since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame and removing the handle (be careful not to damage these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able detect the issue quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.