UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be addressed. This can be due to damaged handles, hinges or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows fairly easily. It can also be much less expensive than a brand new replacement window repair near me.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. If they are not repaired, they can cause water infiltration as well as less effective protection against cold weather, and even the risk of structural damage. It is crucial to find a local builder or repair service that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that can hold broken glass in place for a while. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix damaged or cracked glasses. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and is available for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the tools required to complete the task.

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 done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is another simple repair that can be completed at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily caulked or nailed in place. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-pane window, make sure to make sure that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window and must not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To prevent the damage, it's essential to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

The most common reason for window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is the drainage hole is blocked or faulty flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after heavy rain. You should also examine the window's flashing to ensure that it is well-sealed.

It's also essential to make sure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that's not there will allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't an arduous task and is generally a simple process of purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine your windows' water-tightness and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. This is a costly repair however it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows aren't closing properly, it could cause various issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also be an indication that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant has worn away. There are a few things you can do to solve the problem.

The first step is to set up an area with ample natural light to fix your window properly. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window during your work.

You should also use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will stop any stains of color from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of where the hinge channel must be located. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Once the holes are filled, you can install the hinge channel. Make sure you center it on the window jamb and drill the screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Next, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle and then order a replacement online or bring your old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should close without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or aren't working properly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This could cause problems with security and prevent your home from remaining warm or cool. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It is essential to select the correct type of hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are special types of window hinges for different types of frames, like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common issues that homeowners face with their windows, such as not closing properly.

The hinges of your window could be stiff or loose due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not have been sufficiently tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver to locate 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 achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, 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 repair or replace the window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for the long haul.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important part of security for your home. They make it extremely difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. When a lock fails, it can be frustrating, but it is a quick and easy fix and you do not need to replace the whole window.

It's usually an issue that could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose of the handle on a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, but when they are not maintained properly, over time they could 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 or closing as smoothly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes within the frame. This can be difficult to access because it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window, and removing the handle.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able to identify the problem quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism using a precise replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.