5 Window Repairs Projects For Any Budget

UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and aid in reducing heating costs. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be addressed. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.
Wooden window repairs can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It is also less expensive than a brand new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. It is essential to locate a local repair or builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and tools needed to produce the most effective results. This will ensure that your shattered window is repaired before it gets any worse and that you don't need to replace your window glass or window unit.
There are numerous home solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in the glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a brief period of time. For more severe cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides for optimal results.
Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the proper equipment for the job, like a soldering iron.
If you notice that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting, it is likely because the cords connected to the sashweights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at most home centers and can be nailed and caulked in place with ease. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-pane window, be sure to check that one of the panes are not broken. This is because the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows leak, it could damage the interior of your house and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and cause mold growth. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows immediately to prevent damage.
The most common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame, as well as the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.
Another common reason for leaking windows is the drainage hole is blocked or faulty flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing around the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.
It's also important to make sure that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotted drip cap or one that's missing can allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as easy as buying the new one and nailing it into place.
It's an excellent idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a qualified. They can make use of a device to measure the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they'll have to be replaced. It's a costly fix but it's is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.
Sagging
If more tips here do not close properly, it can result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could also mean that the windows weren't installed correctly or the sealant has worn away. There are several things you can do to fix the issue.
In order to repair your window properly, you need to set up a workspace that is well-lit. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that may come from the window during your work.
Use a white cloth, soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. Mark the location of 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 with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are made of wood). Make sure to smooth out the filled hole before it sets.
Once the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Be sure to 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 hardware shop to find a suitable replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and smooth it out so that the set screw will secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should close smoothly.
Broken Hinges
There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or aren't functioning correctly. This could create an issue with security and stop your home from being warm or cool. It's simple to find an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to make sure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.
The hinges need to be identical in size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. The proper hinge can help you avoid common issues with your windows.
Your window hinges could be stiff or loose for a variety of reasons. The hinges might not be properly tightened. To check this, use an electric screwdriver to find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust the hinge by twisting it either way until you have the desired result.
If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for you. We can replace window hinges, retension them or 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 element of home security. They make it very difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. It can be frustrating when a lock fails however, you don't have to replace the entire window.
It's often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided with regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our yearly maintenance plan to reduce the likelihood of having any issues.
The majority of modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, but if they are not maintained in a timely manner, they could begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times per year.
If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it used to, or if the lock doesn't function correctly, it could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. This can be difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame of the window, and taking off the handle.
A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able to replace the damaged gearbox for locking 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.