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 be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

Wooden window repairs can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major issue. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress, less effective barriers against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They should possess the necessary knowledge, experience and equipment to get the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse, and you won't have to replace your window doctor unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of DIY solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that will hold cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair damaged or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the equipment required for the job.

If you find that your upper or lower sash isn't lifting, it is likely because the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that is done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a different repair that can be done at home. The majority of home centers have a rot-free drip cap that can be easily caulked or nailed in place. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-paned window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes are not broken. The reason is because the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could damage the interior of your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and cause mold growth. To prevent damage, it's important to address any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

One common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water 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 the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. It's important to check that the drainage holes are free and free of obstruction, particularly after a heavy rainstorm. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It is also important to ensure that your drip cap isn't broken or damaged. A drip cap that is rotten or one that is missing will allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap isn't an arduous task and usually a straightforward process of purchasing the new one and putting it in the correct position.

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

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it could cause a variety of issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows were not properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant has stopped working. There are fortunately, a few things you can do to fix the issue.

The first step is to set up an area with plenty of natural light to repair your window correctly. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from drips or splinters that might be coming from the window during your work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to start 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 using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are made of wood). Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Once the holes have been filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Make sure you center it on the window jamb and then drill the new screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order an alternative or bring it to a hardware shop for a replacement. Then, remove the setscrew from the shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should shut without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't functioning correctly. This could be a security risk and could also hinder your home from staying warm or cold. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to ensure that you have the correct hinge for your windows.

The hinges must be the same size in order to fit into the window frame. The most commonly used hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, such as wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners face with their windows, like not closing properly.

There are many reasons why the hinges on your windows have become stiff or loose. The hinges may not have been tightened enough. To test this, take a screwdriver to find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it either way until you achieve the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work correctly. We can provide an immediate solution. 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.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential part of the security of your home, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it is a quick and uPVC window repairs simple fix and you don't need to replace the entire window.

It is often a minor issue that could have been easily avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend getting your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of problems.

Modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, but should they not be maintained in a timely manner, 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 UPVC window repairs closing as easily as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there may be a problem with locking gearboxes inside the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult because it requires the removal of seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be cautious not to damage the seals).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and be able replace the damaged gearbox for locking with an exact replacement. This quick and easy fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to purchase new windows.