10 Unexpected Window Repairs Tips
UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they get older, problems can arise which need fixing. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows with ease. It's cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. If they are not repaired, they can result in water infiltration and less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the potential for structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.
There are many home-based solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most commonly used products that can hold broken glass in place for a while. For deeper cracks, tape may require to be extended on both sides.
Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. The majority of hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools required to complete the task.
If you notice that your upper or lower sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords connected to the sashweights have been damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be accomplished using the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is another simple repair that can be done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked into place with ease. Also, if you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to check that one of the panes are not broken. The reason is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window. They should not be allowed to escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your interior and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your home and cause mold growth. To avoid damage, it's crucial to fix any problems caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.
The most common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. It's also important to check for gaps and cracks around the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.
Another reason for leaky windows is the drainage hole is blocked or faulty flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clear and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It is also important to check the windows' flashing to ensure that it's properly sealed.
It's also important to check that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. window repair near me or one that's missing will allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It's as easy as purchasing a new one, and nailing it into place.
It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness with a professional. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness and strength of your windows and ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you will have to replace them. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't close properly, it could cause various issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant is no longer effective. There are fortunately, a few ways to fix the problem.
The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to fix your window in a timely manner. Begin by laying out newspapers or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows as you work.
Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. When you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of where the hinge channel must be placed. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.
Once the holes are filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Make sure it is centered on the window jamb, and that you drill the new holes approximately quarter inch away from the original locations.
Then, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can then order a replacement online or bring the old one in to a hardware store for matching. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should close easily.
Broken Hinges
It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't working correctly. This can cause problems with security and prevent your home from staying cool or warm. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the right type of hinge for your windows.
The hinges need to be identical in size to fit into the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinge used in windows made of uPVC is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the typical issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.
There are several reasons why the hinges on your windows be loose or stiff. One of the most common causes is that the hinges are not properly securing. 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 it by twisting it in either direction until you have the desired result.
Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working properly. We can provide an immediate solution. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the best solution. 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 locks and mechanism are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be a hassle when a lock fails, but you don't need to replace the entire window.
It's usually a minor issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our annual maintenance package in order to reduce the likelihood of having any issues.
Most modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, however should they not be maintained properly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times per year.
If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working properly, there may be a problem with the locking gearboxes within the frame. It can be difficult to access since it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window, and taking off the handle.
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able to diagnose this fault quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.