Say "Yes" To These 5 Window Repairs Tips
UPVC Window Repairs
Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age problems can arise which need fixing. This can include faulty hinges, handles or locks.
Wooden window repairs can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It can be cheaper than purchasing a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and tears in windows made of uPVC can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration and less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the possibility of structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the required skills, experience and equipment to ensure the most effective results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets any 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. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a short period of time. For deeper cracks the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides for optimal results.
You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing broken or cracked glasses. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought at a cost of around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the correct equipment for the job, like a soldering iron.
If you find that your lower or upper sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be easily repaired at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed or caulked into place with ease. Make sure that the glass of double-paned or triple-paned window is not broken. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the efficiency of the window and should not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows leak, it could damage the interior of your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and cause mold growth. To prevent the damage, it's essential to repair any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.
The most common reason for window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. The use of silicone caulking can restore the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame and also the stone or brick wall that surrounds your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. Make sure that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, especially after heavy rain. You should also examine the flashing around your window repair to ensure it is properly sealed.
Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A rotten or damaged drip cap could allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing drip caps isn't a complicated job and usually a straightforward process of buying the new one and nailing it into the correct position.
It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a qualified. They can make use of a device to test your windows' water-tightness and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. It's a costly repair, but is worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows do not shut properly, it could cause a variety of issues, such as condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It can also be a sign that the windows weren't properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer working. Fortunately, there are some options to fix the issue.
To repair your window correctly it is necessary to set up a workspace with plenty of natural light. Begin by laying down newspaper or a blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips that may fall from windows as you work.
Use a white cloth soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will ensure that you don't leave any color stains on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.
After the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Be sure to center it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement online or bring the old one to a hardware store for matching. Then, take the setscrew from the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC windows should close without a hitch.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or aren't functioning properly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This could create problems with security and prevent your home from remaining warm or cool. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to ensure you have the correct hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges must be of the same width to fit in the window frame. The most commonly used hinge used in Upvc windows is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for other types of frames such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.
Your window hinges may be loose or stiff due to a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges are not properly securing. To check, use a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.
If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges, and give you suggestions on the best solution. We can replace hinges on windows, retension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe.
Faulty Locks
UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial element of security for your home. They make it very difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. It can be a frustrating experience when a lock fails, but you don't have to replace the entire window.
It is often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest having your upvc window repairs window cleaned regularly as part of our annual maintenance package in order to decrease the chances of having any issues.
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 can start to fail if they're not properly maintained. We suggest lubricating with WD-40 every couple of times a year.
If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as quickly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be an issue with the locking gearboxes in the frame. This is often difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame of the window and then removing the handle.
A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able to diagnose this fault quickly and replace the broken locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a quick and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.