UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age, problems may arise that require fixing. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows fairly easily. It can be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows can be a serious issue. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience as well as the right equipment to get the best results. This will ensure your fracture is repaired quickly before it gets worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

There are many home-based solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that can keep cracked glass in place for a time. For deeper cracks, tape might need 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 can be purchased for around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the right 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 weights have become damaged. This is an easy fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily replaced 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. If you have a double or triple-paned window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes are not broken. The reason for this is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the energy efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could cause damage to the interior of your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. To prevent the damage, it's essential to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

One common cause of window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and prevent water leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame as well as the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or faulty Flashing are two other typical causes of windows leaking. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. You should also examine the window's flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

It's also essential to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A rotten or damaged drip cap could allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky isn't difficult. It's as easy as buying the new one and nailing it in place.

It's recommended to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a qualified. They can use a special instrument to test the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you'll need to replace them. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not shut properly, it could lead to a number problems, including condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant is worn out. There are several things you can do to fix the problem.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with ample natural light to fix your window correctly. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that may come from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your upvc repairs near me window when you are ready to start working. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made of wood). Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes are filled. Make sure you center it on the window jamb and then drill the new screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle and order a replacement online or bring the old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, remove the setscrew from the shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should close easily.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't functioning correctly. This could cause a security problem and prevent your home from being cool or warm. It's easy to get a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It is essential to select the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. The right type of hinge will allow you to avoid common problems with your windows.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff due to a variety of reasons. One common cause is that the hinges aren't tightened enough. To check this, use a screwdriver and locate the friction screw at the hinge's end. Then loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can replace hinges on windows, retension them or install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.

Faulty Locks

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

It's often an issue that is minor and could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend getting your upvc repair windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

Modern uPVC windows have locks that operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, however if they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as easily as they used to or when the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. It can be difficult to access this since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch these).

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and be able to repair the failed locking gearbox with a exact replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.