UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age, problems can arise which need fixing. This can be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows fairly easily. It is also cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress and less effective barriers against cold weather and even the possibility of structural damage. It is crucial to find a local repair or builder that specializes in fixing uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your shattered window is fixed before it gets worse and that you don't need to replace the window glass or window unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed with a range of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a brief duration. For cracks that are more extensive, tape might need to be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing damaged or cracked glasses. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be purchased for around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the proper tool for the job, such as a soldering iron.

If you find that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it is most likely due to the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. It's a simple repair that can be done using the ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be easily repaired at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Verify that the glass in double glazing or triple-paned window isn't cracked. This is because the gasses that fill the space between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could ruin the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home as well as the growth of mold. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible to limit damage.

The most common reason for window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help bring the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It's also important to look for cracks and gaps in the frame as well as in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are also common causes of leaking windows. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are free and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. You should also examine the window's flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

It is also important to make sure that your drip cap isn't broken or damaged. A rotted drip cap or one that is missing allows 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 buying the new one and nailing it in place.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they comply with industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you will have to replace them. It's a costly fix, but worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly it can cause various issues, such as drafts condensation and an increase in energy bills. It could also indicate that the windows weren't installed correctly or the sealant has worn out. There are fortunately, a few ways to fix the issue.

In order to repair your window properly it is necessary to set up a workspace that is well-lit. Start by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips from the windows while you work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth which has been soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color 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 fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb and then drill the new screw holes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order an alternative or bring it to a hardware shop for matching. Then, take the setscrew from the shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or not working properly. This could create an issue with security and stop your home from remaining warm or cool. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to make sure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges have to be identical in size to fit inside the window frame. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The proper hinge will help you to avoid the common issues with your windows.

The hinges on your windows could be slack or stiff due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.

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

The locks are not working properly

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential element of home security. They make it extremely difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. It can be frustrating when a lock malfunctions, but you don't need to replace the entire window.

It is often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided with regular maintenance. This is why we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose of the handle over a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are very effective in keeping the window closed, however with time, they may begin to fail if they are not properly maintained. We suggest using WD-40 for lubrication a couple of times per year.

If you notice your upvc repairs near me window isn't opening or closing as easily as it used to, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there could be an issue with the locking gearboxes in the frame. It can be difficult to access this since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame and removing the handle (be cautious not to damage these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs is able to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able to repair the failed locking gearbox with a exact replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.