UPVC Window Repairs

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

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

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in uPVC windows can be a serious problem. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local repair or builder that specialises in fixing uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse, and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

There are many home-based solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a short time. For deeper cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides to get the optimal results.

Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be purchased at a cost of around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the correct equipment for the job, such as a soldering iron.

If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise, it's likely due to the fact that the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. It's a simple repair that can be made using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that is done at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at most home centers and can be nailed and caulked into place with ease. Also, if you have a double or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes are not broken. This is because the gases that fill the space between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your interior and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. To prevent damage, it's important to address any issues caused by leaky windows immediately.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and prevent leakage. It is also essential to look for gaps and cracks around the frame, as well as in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.

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

Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't missing or decaying. A rotted or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing drip caps isn't a complicated job and is typically a simple task of purchasing a new one and putting it in the correct position.

It's an excellent idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness with a professional. They can employ a specific tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will require replacement. It's an expensive fix but it's is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort 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 be an indication that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant has stopped working. Fortunately, there are some ways to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to help repair your window properly. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that may come from the window during your work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will ensure that you don't leave any stains of color on your windows. If you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be located. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

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

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle. You can then order an alternative online or bring your old one to a hardware store for matching. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and smooth it so that the set screw will be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should be closing easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't working properly and you are unable to open or close the window replacement near me, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This could be a security risk and can also stop your home from staying warm or cold. It's easy to get a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It's important that you use the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most popular type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The proper hinge will help you to avoid common problems with your windows.

There are many reasons why your window hinges may be loose or stiff. One common cause is that the hinges aren't properly securing. To check this, use a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the hinge's end. Loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it in either direction until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't working as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your window hinges 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 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. If a lock fails, it can be frustrating, but it's an simple fix and you don't have to replace the entire window.

It is often an issue that could have been easily avoided by regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend getting your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose end of the handle over the wedge block, then turning it to close the lock. They are very efficient in keeping the window locked, but with time, they may begin to fail if not properly maintained - we recommend applying WD-40 to the lock at least once per year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as smoothly as it used to or if the lock doesn't function correctly, it could be a problem with the locking gearboxes in the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult as it requires the removing of the seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be cautious not to damage these).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to quickly identify the issue and will then be able replace the failed locking gearbox with a precise replacement. This is a fast and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.