UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems can occur that need to be addressed. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.

DIY people can fix wooden windows with ease. It's less expensive than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your crack is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

There are many home-based remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that can keep cracked glass in place for a time. For more severe cracks, the tape may require to be extended on both sides.

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 bought at a cost of around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools necessary for the job.

If your upper or lower sash is difficult to raise it's most likely because the cords that connect the sash weights are damaged. This is an easy fix that is done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be easily repaired at home. The majority of home centers have a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily caulked or nailed in place. Verify that the glass in double glazing-paned or triple-paned window is not cracked. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the efficiency of the window and should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. It's important to address any issues caused by leaky windows right away to minimize damage.

One common cause of window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. The use of silicone caulking can restore 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.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing that runs around the top of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.

Finally, it's essential to check that your drip cap isn't broken or decaying. A damaged or damaged drip cap can allow water to enter the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing drip caps isn't difficult and typically a simple task of buying a new one and nailing it into the right spot.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can utilize a special tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. It's a costly repair but it's worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it can cause a variety of issues, such as condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows weren't installed correctly or the sealant has worn away. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to correct the issue.

To repair your window correctly, you need to create a space with ample natural light. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will stop any stains of color from appearing on your windows. When you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, start by making note of where the hinge channel should be placed. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are constructed of wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

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

Next, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of the handle and then order a replacement on the internet or bring the old one in to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and smooth it so that the set screw is able to lock onto the shaft (photo). Then, your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't working properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This can cause an issue with security and stop your home from staying warm or cool. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. But, it's crucial to make sure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The correct type of hinge will allow you to avoid common issues with your windows.

Your window hinges could be stiff or loose for a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be properly tightened. To check this, use a screwdriver and locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working properly. We can provide a quick fix. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can replace your window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for a long time to come.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window locks and mechanism are a very important part of home security. they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. It can be frustrating when a lock fails however, you don't have to replace the entire window.

It's often an issue that is minor and could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend having your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose end of the handle over a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, but when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as easily as they used too, or If the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is an issue with the gearbox that locks the window frame. This can be difficult to access because it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window and then removing the handle.

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to quickly identify the issue and be able to replace the failed locking gearbox with a exact replacement. This quick and easy fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.