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 people can fix wooden windows relatively easily. It can be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can pose a serious problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. It is important to find a local repair or builder who specializes in fixing uPVC frames and who has the experience, skills and tools needed to produce the best results. This will ensure that your fracture 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 fixed with a range of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that will hold cracked 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 for repairing damaged or cracked glasses. The majority of hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the proper tool for the job, like a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily it's because the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be accomplished with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily repaired at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked into place with ease. Check that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window isn't damaged. The reason is because 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 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 can cause mold growth. It is crucial to address any issues caused by leaky windows immediately to prevent damage.

One common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help bring the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame as well as the stone or brick wall that surrounds your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't broken or decaying. A rotted or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn't difficult. It's as easy as buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can make use of a device to measure the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they comply with the standards of the industry. If your windows don't pass the test, you will need to replace them. This is a costly fix, but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It could also be a sign that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant is no longer effective. Fortunately, there are some ways to fix the problem.

The first step is to set up a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to fix your window properly. Start by laying down newspaper or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips that might fall off the windows as you work.

You should also use a white cloth which has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will stop any color stains from appearing on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are made of wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Be sure to center it on the window jamb, and drill the screw holes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle and order a replacement on the internet or bring the old one to a hardware store for matching. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it so that the set screw will lock onto the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window replacement should close easily.

Broken Hinges

There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or not working correctly. This can cause problems with security and prevent your home from staying cool or warm. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your upvc repair window. However, it's important to ensure that you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges need to be the same size to fit inside the window frame. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are specialised types of window hinges for different types of frames, such as wooden frames. The proper hinge will help you to avoid the common issues with your windows.

The hinges on your windows could be slack or stiff for several reasons. One common cause is that the hinges aren't tightened enough. To test this, take an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge. Loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in either direction.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't functioning as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges, and give you advice 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 safe and secure.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important 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.

Often the problem can be a minor issue which could have been averted when you had regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our annual maintenance package in order to reduce the likelihood of any issues.

The majority of modern uPVC windows come with locks that operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very efficient in keeping the window closed, however over time, they could begin to fail if they are not properly maintained. We suggest using WD-40 for lubrication every 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 locking gearbox within the window frame. It can be difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals around the window frame and taking off the handle.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and then be able to repair the gearbox that failed to lock with an exact replacement. This is a fast and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.