UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. As they age, however, problems may develop 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 tackle themselves. It's cheaper than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

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

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

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and is available for about $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right equipment for the job, like a soldering iron.

If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise it's most likely because the cords that connect the sash's weights have been damaged. Thankfully, this is a simple repair that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is another simple repair that is done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be nailed or caulked into place with ease. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes isn't broken. The reason is because the gases in the space 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 ruin the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. It is crucial to address any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize damage.

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

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are also typical causes of windows leaking. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly after a heavy rainstorm. It is also important to check the windows' flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

Finally, it's essential to check that your drip cap isn't missing or decaying. A drip cap that is rotten or one that's missing can allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky is not a difficult task. It's as simple as purchasing a new one, and nailing it into place.

It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can utilize a special 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'll require replacement. This is a cost-effective 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 various problems, such as drafts, condensation and an increase in energy costs. It could also mean that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant has worn away. Fortunately, there are a few options to correct the issue.

The first step is to prepare an area with plenty of natural light to fix your window properly. Begin by laying out newspaper or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters or drips that might fall off the windows as you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a mix of water and detergent. 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 begin 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 made from wood). Be sure to scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.

Once the holes have been filled, you can install the hinge channel. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb, and make sure you drill the new holes approximately quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can request an replacement or take it to a local hardware store to find a suitable replacement. Remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC windows should be closing smoothly.

Broken Hinges

There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or not working properly. This could cause a security problem and prevent your home from staying warm or cool. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your upvc repairs near me window. It is essential to select the right type for your windows.

The hinges need to be identical in size to fit into the frame of the window. The most popular hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common issues that homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons your window hinges could be loose or stiff. One common cause is that the hinges are not sufficiently tightened. To test this, take an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge. Loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you get the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't functioning as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges for your windows and advise you on the best solution for you. 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 a long time to come.

Faulty Locks

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

It's usually an issue that is minor and could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend that you have your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very effective in keeping the window secure, but over time they can start to fail if they are not properly maintained. We suggest using WD-40 for lubrication at least once per year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as smoothly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes inside the frame. This is often difficult to access since it requires removing the seals that surround the window frame and removing the handle.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly, and then replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.