UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they get older, issues can develop that require fixing. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They must possess the necessary knowledge, experience and equipment to get the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that can keep cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For cracks that are more extensive the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides to get the optimal results.

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It is available at most hardware stores and is available at a cost of around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right tool for the job for example, a soldering tool.

If you notice that your lower or upper sash has difficulty raising it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. It's a simple repair that can be made with the help of the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is another simple repair that can be done at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked into place with ease. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window isn't damaged. This is because the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your home and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and the growth of mold. To prevent the damage, it's essential to repair any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.

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

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. Verify that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, especially after heavy rain. Also, you should check the flashing around your window to ensure that it's properly sealed.

It is also important to ensure that your drip cap isn't broken or damaged. A rotted or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing a drip cap isn't an arduous task and typically a simple task of buying the new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can use a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could cause many problems, such as drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy costs. It could be an indication that the windows were not properly fitted at installation or the sealant has stopped working. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix the issue.

The first step is to set up a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to help repair your window correctly. Begin by laying down newspaper or a blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips from the windows as you work.

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

Install the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. 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.

Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can request an replacement or take it to a local hardware store to find a suitable replacement. Then, take the setscrew from the shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC windows should be closing without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't working correctly. This can cause problems with security and prevent your home from being warm or cool. It is easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's essential to ensure that you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The right type of hinge will allow you to avoid common issues with your windows.

There are many reasons why the hinges on your windows have become slack or stiff. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. You can check this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't functioning as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can repair or replace your window hinges and retension them. We can also install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential part of security for your home. They make it extremely difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. It can be a hassle when a lock fails however, you don't have to replace the entire window doctor.

Sometimes, the issue is a small issue that could have been prevented if you have had regular maintenance. This is why we recommend that you have your upvc repairs windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of problems.

Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, but should they not be maintained correctly, over time they could begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as quickly as they used to or If the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox within the window frame. This is often difficult to access as it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window and then taking the handle off.

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs is able to diagnose this fault quickly and will then be able to repair the gearbox that failed to lock with a exact replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.