Is Window Repairs Just As Important As Everyone Says?
UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be fixed. This can include faulty hinges, handles or locks.
Wooden window repair is fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It's cheaper than purchasing a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration, less effective protection against cold temperatures and the potential for structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the necessary skills, experience and equipment to ensure the best results. This will ensure that the crack is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or window unit.
There are a variety of home solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most commonly used products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a brief time. For cracks that are more extensive, tape may require to be extended on both sides.
Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the equipment required for the job.
If your lower or upper sash is difficult to raise it's because the cords that connect the sash weights are damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be made using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is a different repair that is done at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Lastly, if you have a double or triple-pane window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes are not broken. This is because the gases that fill the space between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency and should be kept, not escaping.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can damage the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your home and can cause mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize the damage.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent cause of leaks. Utilizing silicone caulk can help restore the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. It is also essential to look for gaps and cracks around the frame as well as in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.
double glazing repair Staines for leaky windows is a blocked drainage hole or a defective flashing. Verify that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. You should also look at the windows' flashing to ensure it is well-sealed.
It's also important to check that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A rotted or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above, causing damage to your home's structure. Replacing the leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as simple as purchasing a new one, and nailing it into place.
It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a qualified. They can use a tool to test your windows' water-tightness and ensure that they comply with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they'll require replacement. This is a cost-effective repair, but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.
Sagging
If your windows aren't closing properly, it could cause a number of problems, such as drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows were not properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer working. Fortunately, there are a few ways to fix the problem.
In order to repair your window properly it is necessary to create a space with plenty of natural light. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that might be coming from the window while you work.
Use a white cloth, soaked in a mix of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. 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 filled hole smooth before it sets.
Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure you center it on the window jamb, and drill the screw holes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.
Next, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order an replacement or take it to a local hardware store to find a suitable replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and file it flat so the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Then, your uPVC windows should close 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 staying cool or warm. You can easily purchase an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges must be of the same width to fit into the window frame. The most commonly used hinges for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.
The hinges on your windows may be loose or stiff due to a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges aren't properly securing. You can test this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in either direction.
If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges for your windows and advise you on the best solution for your needs. We can replace hinges on windows and retension them. We can also install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.
Locks that aren't working
UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential part of the security of your home, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. If 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.
It's usually an issue that could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of problems.
Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose end of the handle onto a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping the window closed, however over time they can start to fail if they're not properly maintained. We suggest applying WD-40 to the lock at least once per year.
If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as quickly as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't work correctly, it could be a problem with locking gearboxes within the frame. This is often difficult to access because it requires removing the seals around the frame of the window and then taking the handle off.
A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to identify the problem quickly and will then be able to repair the damaged gearbox for locking with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds by avoiding having to purchase new windows.