UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age issues can develop that require repair. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and tears in windows made of uPVC can be a major issue. If they are not fixed, they could cause water infiltration and less effective protection against cold weather, and even the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to achieve the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired quickly before it gets any 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. Super glue and masking tape are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a time. For more severe cracks, the tape may require to be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. Hardware stores typically sell this product for around $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the equipment necessary to complete the task.

If you notice that your lower or upper sash has difficulty raising it is most likely due to the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily replaced at home. The majority of home centers have a rot-free drip cap that can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Lastly, if you have a double glazing repairs or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes are not broken. The reason is because the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window and must not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and cause mold growth. To avoid damage, it's important to repair any issues caused by windows that leak immediately.

The most common reason for window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help bring the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. It is also essential to look for cracks and gaps in 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. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clear and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. It's also recommended to examine the flashing on the lower part of your window to ensure that it's sealed properly.

It's also crucial to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A rotted drip cap or one that's missing will allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky isn't a daunting task. It's as simple as buying a new one, and nailing it in place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can employ a specific tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows to make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you'll need to replace them. It's a costly fix, but worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it can lead to a number problems, including condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It could be an indication that the windows were not properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant has stopped working. There are fortunately, a few options to fix the problem.

The first step is to prepare an area with ample natural light to repair your window correctly. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that might be coming from the window while you work.

It is also recommended to make use of a white cloth that has been immersed in a solution of water and detergent. This will stop any stains of color appearing on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

After the holes have been filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Be sure to center it on the window jamb, and drill the screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

Next, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can request an replacement or take it to a hardware shop for matching. Then, take out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it so that the set screw can lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or aren't working properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This can cause an issue with security and stop your home from being warm or cool. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be of the same width to fit in the window frame. The most commonly used hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

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 tightened enough. You can test this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it either way until you get 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 your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for your needs. We can repair or replace the window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for years to come.

Faulty locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important part of home security. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. It can be a frustrating experience when a lock malfunctions, however, you don't have to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's an issue that could have been prevented by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose of the handle over the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping the window locked, but with time, they may begin to fail if they are not properly maintained. We suggest applying WD-40 to the lock a couple of times per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and close as smoothly as they used too, or when the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. This can be difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals around the frame of the window and then taking the handle off.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able to detect the issue quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This quick and easy fix can save you hundreds by avoiding the need to purchase new windows.