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 could include damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repair can be fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It's cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. It is crucial to find an expert local builder or repair service that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of home-based solutions. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most popular products to hold cracked glass in place for a brief time. For more severe cracks the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides for best results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing broken or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and is available for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior 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 is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be repaired at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. Lastly, if you have a double glazing near me or triple-paned window, be sure to make sure that one of the panes isn't broken. This is because the gasses that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your home and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your home and lead to the growth of mold. To avoid the damage, it's essential to repair any issues caused by windows that leak immediately.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame and also the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is blocked drainage holes or a defective flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. You should also examine the window's flashing to ensure that it's well-sealed.

It's also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotten drip cap or one that's not there can allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't an arduous task and is generally a simple process of buying the new one and nailing it into the correct position.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to test the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. It's a costly fix, repairs but is worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it could lead to a number problems, including condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant is worn out. Fortunately, there are some ways to fix the issue.

To repair your window correctly it is necessary to set up a workspace with ample natural light. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window during your work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth that has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. This will help prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. Note the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the filled hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and drill the new screwholes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order an replacement or take it to a hardware shop for a replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew on the operator shaft and smooth it out so that the set screw is able to lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or are not functioning correctly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This could create problems with security and prevent your home from being cool or warm. You can easily purchase an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.

The hinges must be identical in size to fit into the frame of the window. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners encounter with their windows, such as not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons your window hinges could be loose or stiff. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't properly securing. To check, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it in any direction until you achieve the desired result.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work correctly. We can provide a quick fix. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for you. We can replace your window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for years to come.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. If a lock fails, it can be a frustrating experience, but it is a quick and simple fix and you don't need to replace the whole window.

Most of the time, it's a small issue that could have been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of problems.

Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but should they not be maintained in a timely manner, they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times per year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it used to, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame and removing the handle (be careful not to damage the seals).

A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able to identify the problem quickly and replace the broken locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.