UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. As they get older, however, issues can occur that need to be addressed. This can include faulty hinges, handles or locks.

DIY people can fix wooden windows with ease. It can be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can pose a serious problem. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the necessary 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 the glass. 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 may require to be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix damaged or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and is available for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the proper tool for the job such as a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise, it's likely because the cords on the sash weights are damaged. It's an easy fix that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a second repair that is done at home. Rot-free drip caps are readily available at many home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked into place with ease. Verify that the glass in double-paned or triple-paned window is not cracked. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window and should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can ruin your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your home and can cause mold growth. It's important to address any problems caused by leaking windows immediately to prevent damage.

The most common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame, and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. Verify that the drainage holes haven't been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing around the lower part of your window to ensure it's sealed correctly.

Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A damaged or missing drip cap will let water in the window from above, causing damage to your home's structure. Replacing a drip cap isn't difficult and is typically a simple task of buying an entirely new one and putting it in the right spot.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can employ a specific instrument to test the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will require replacement. It's an expensive fix, but worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could lead to a number problems, including condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It can be an indication that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant has stopped working. There are a few options you can try to resolve the issue.

To repair your window correctly it is necessary to create a space that is well-lit. Start by laying down newspaper or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips that may fall from windows as you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mix of detergent and water. This will ensure you don't leave any stains of color uPVC window repairs on your windows. When you are ready to work on your uPVC windows, start by marking where the hinge channel should be placed. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the hole you have filled 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 new screwholes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring the old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, take out the setscrew on the operator shaft and smooth it out so that the set screw will be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should shut smoothly.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or aren't working properly. This could be a security issue and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's essential to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be of the same width to fit inside the window frame. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. The right type of hinge can help you avoid the common issues with your windows.

The hinges of your window may be loose or stiff for several reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges are not sufficiently tightened. You can test this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust it by twisting it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working properly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the best solution. We can repair timber windows or replace the window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for years to come.

Faulty locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential part of home security. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. When a lock fails, it could be frustrating, however it's an simple fix and you don't have to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's an issue that could have been prevented when you had regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our annual maintenance plan to reduce the likelihood of any problems.

Most modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping windows secure, but with time, they may begin to fail if they're not properly maintained - we recommend using WD-40 for lubrication a couple of times per year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as smoothly as it used to or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes within the frame. Accessing this can be tricky since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage the seals).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able diagnose this fault quickly, and then replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a quick and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to buy new windows.