Why Window Repairs Is Your Next Big Obsession
UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age issues can develop that require repair. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows with ease. It is also cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks in uPVC windows could be a serious problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local builder or repair service that specialises in the repair of uPVC frames and can demonstrate the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.
There are many home-based remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most popular products that can hold broken glass in place for a few minutes. For deeper cracks the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides for best results.
Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be purchased at a cost of around $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the equipment required for the job.
If you find that your lower or upper sash has difficulty raising it could be because the cords connected to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is another simple repair that can be completed at home. The majority of home centers have a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Also, if you have a double- or triple-paned window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC window is leaking, this can ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and cause mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows immediately to prevent the damage.
The most common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame, and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.
Another reason for leaky windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly after a heavy rainstorm. You should also look at the flashing around your window to ensure that it is well-sealed.
Finally, it's essential to check that your drip cap isn't damaged or damaged. A rotted 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 is not a difficult task. It's as easy as buying a new one, and nailing it in place.
A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. It's an expensive fix however it's worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't shut properly, it could result in a myriad of issues, such as condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant has stopped working. There are a few things you can try to resolve the problem.
The first step is to set up your workspace in a space that has plenty of light to fix your window properly. Begin by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters or drips from the windows as you work.
You will also want to make use of a white cloth that has been immersed in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any color stains on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are constructed from wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.
Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Make sure you center it on the window jamb, and then drill the new screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.
Then, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can order an alternative or bring it to a hardware shop for matching. Remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to be locked onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC windows should shut without a hitch.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't functioning properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This can cause a security problem and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's essential to ensure that you have the correct hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges need to be the same width to fit inside the frame of the window. The most common type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialized types of hinges for windows that can be used on different kinds of frames such as wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.
There are several reasons why the hinges on your windows have become slack or stiff. The hinges may not be properly tightened. Coulsdon window repair can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.
If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges, and give you suggestions on the best solution. We can repair or replace your window hinges or retension them, or even install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.
Locks that aren't working
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial component of security for your home. They make it difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. When a lock fails, it could be frustrating, however it's an easy repair and you don't need to replace the entire window.
It is often an issue that could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. This is why we recommend that you have your uPVC windows checked regularly by our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of having problems.
The majority of modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but should they not be maintained properly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a couple of times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as easily as they used to or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it's likely that there is a problem with the gearbox that locks the window frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch the seals).
A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able diagnose this fault quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This simple and quick fix could save you hundreds by avoiding having to buy new windows.