UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and help to reduce heating bills. As they age, however, problems can occur that need to be fixed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress, less effective protection against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the necessary skills and experience as well as the right equipment to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it worsens and you don't have to replace your window glass or window unit.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of DIY solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular products to hold cracked glass in place for a brief period of time. For cracks that are more extensive, tape may require to be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. This is available from most hardware stores and is available at a cost of around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the correct tool for the job for example, a soldering tool.

If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily it's most likely because the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily repaired at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at most home centers and can be nailed or caulked into place with ease. Verify that the glass in double glazing or triple-paned window isn't cracked. The reason for this is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window. They must not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can ruin your interior and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home, as well as the growth of mold. It is crucial to address any issues caused by leaky windows right away to minimize damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Using silicone caulking can help bring the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and prevent water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is a blocked drainage hole or a defective flashing. Check that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, especially after heavy rain. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing around the lower part of your window to ensure that it's sealed properly.

It's also essential to check that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A rotted or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a drip cap isn't difficult, and it's generally a simple process of buying a new one and putting it in the right spot.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will need to replace them. It's an expensive fix, but worthwhile to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could cause a variety of issues, such as condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could be a sign that the windows were not properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer effective. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to correct the issue.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space that has plenty of light to repair your window in a timely manner. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from drips or splinters that might be coming from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will help prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are constructed from wood). Make sure to smooth out the filled hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once 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.

Next, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of the handle and then order a replacement online or bring the old one in to an hardware store to get a matching. Remove the setscrew from the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't functioning properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause an issue with security and stop your home from remaining cool or warm. It's simple to find a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It is essential to select the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinge used in Upvc windows is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are special kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges of your window could be stiff or loose for a variety of reasons. One common cause is that the hinges are not properly securing. You can check this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you get the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can provide an immediate solution. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges for your windows and provide you with the best solution for you. We can replace hinges on windows or retension them, or even install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.

The locks are not working properly

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial component of security for your home. They make it very difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. When a lock fails, it can be frustrating, but it's an easy repair and you don't need to replace the entire window.

It's usually an issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of having problems.

The majority of 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, however if they are not maintained correctly, over time they could begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as quickly as they used too, or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. Accessing this can be tricky because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and will then be able to replace the failed locking gearbox with an exact replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.