UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be fixed. This could include damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

Wooden window repair can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It can also be much cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major Upvc Window Repair issue. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. It is crucial to find a local builder or repair service that specialises in fixing uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the most effective results. This will ensure that the fracture is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

There are many home-based solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most commonly used products that can keep cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For deeper cracks, tape might need to be extended on both sides.

Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. This is available from most hardware stores and is available for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools required for the job.

If you notice that your upper or lower sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords connected to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is a different repair that is done at home. Most home centers carry rot-free drip cap that can be easily caulked or nailed in place. Check that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window is not damaged. This is because the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be retained, not escaping.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To avoid damage, it's important to address any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.

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

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows that leak. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly after a heavy rainstorm. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing on the bottom of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.

Finally, it's essential to check that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A rotten drip cap or one that's not there will allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a drip cap isn't a complicated job and typically a simple task of purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into the right spot.

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

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly it can cause a number of issues, such as drafts condensation and an increase in energy bills. It could also indicate that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to fix the problem.

The first step is to set up a workspace in a room with ample natural light to repair your window properly. Begin by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters or drips that might fall off the windows as you work.

You will also want to use a white cloth that has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. This will prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. When you're ready to start working on your uPVC windows, start by making note of where the hinge channel should be placed. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb and then drill the new screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can order a replacement or bring it to a local hardware store for matching. Then, pull out the setscrew on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Then, your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't working properly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security problem and could also hinder your home from staying warm or cold. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. But, it's crucial to make sure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be of the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for windows made of upvc window repair are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The proper hinge can help you avoid the common issues with your windows.

There are several reasons why your window hinges may have become slack or stiff. One of the most common causes is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. You can test this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of the hinges on your windows and recommend the best option for you. We can replace your window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for a long time to come.

Faulty locks

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are a very important part of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. It can be a hassle when a lock fails, but you don't need to replace the entire window.

It is often an issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our yearly maintenance package in order to minimize the chance of any issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work 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 when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as easily as it used to, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there may be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. It can be difficult to access this as it requires the removing of the seals around the frame and removing the handle (be careful not to scratch these).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs is able to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able to repair the damaged gearbox for locking with a exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to buy new windows.