UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. As they get older, however, issues can occur that need to be addressed. This could include damaged handles, hinges, or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows with ease. It's less expensive than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. Leaving them unrepaired can cause water infiltration as well as less effective protection against cold temperatures and the possibility of structural damage. It is essential to locate an experienced local repair or builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames and has the expertise, experience, and tools required to deliver the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets 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 popular products that will hold cracked glass in place for a while. For cracks that are more extensive, tape may need be extended on both sides.

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

If you notice that your upper or lower sash isn't lifting, it is likely because the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. It's a simple repair that can be done using an extension ladder and window repairs a flat-head 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 in place. Make sure that the glass of double or triple-paned window isn't damaged. This is because the gases that are filling the space between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be retained, not escaping.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. To avoid damage, it's important to fix any problems caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent cause of leaks. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame, as well as the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clear and free of obstruction, particularly during heavy rainstorms. Also, you should look at the window's flashing to ensure it is well-sealed.

It's also crucial to make sure that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A rotted or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above, causing damage to your home's structure. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as easy as buying 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 make use of a device to test the water-tightness of your windows, and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they'll require replacement. It's a costly repair but it's worthwhile to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could lead to many issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It can also be a sign that the windows were not properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer working. There are a few options you can do to resolve the problem.

To fix your window properly it is necessary to set up a workspace with ample natural light. Begin by laying out newspaper or a blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows as you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will help prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. If you're ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be located. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure to smooth out the hole that you have filled before it sets.

After the holes have been filled, you can install the hinge channel. Make sure it's centered on the window jamb and that you drill the new screw holes about one quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can order a replacement or bring it to a local hardware store for matching. Then, remove the setscrew from the shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to be locked onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't functioning properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This could be a security issue and also prevent your home from staying warm or cold. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to make sure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be the same size to fit inside the window frame. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are specialised types of window hinges for other types of frames like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common problems that many homeowners encounter with their windows, such as not closing properly.

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

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning properly. We can offer an immediate fix. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your window hinges and provide you with the best solution for your needs. We can replace your window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for a long time to come.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are a very important part of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be a hassle when a lock malfunctions, but you don't need to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's an issue that could have been prevented by regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend that you have your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

The majority of modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very efficient in keeping the window locked, but over time, they could begin to fail if they're not properly maintained - we recommend using WD-40 for lubrication a couple of times per year.

If you find that your uPVC window repair isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there may be an issue with the locking gearboxes within the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult since it requires the removal of seals around the frame and removing the handle (be careful not to scratch the seals).

A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able to diagnose this fault quickly, and then replace the broken locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to buy new windows.