UPVC Window Repairs

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

Wooden window repair is relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. It is crucial to find a local repair or builder who specializes in fixing uPVC frames and has the experience, skills and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that the fracture is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

There are numerous home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a while. For deeper cracks, the tape may need to extend past the crack on both sides to achieve the optimal results.

Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. This is available from most hardware stores and can be purchased for about $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the proper tool for the job, like a soldering iron.

If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily it's due to the fact that the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that can be done with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at most home centers and can be nailed and put in place using caulk. Verify that the glass in double or triple-paned window isn't cracked. This is because the gases that are leaking out between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can cause damage to your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. To prevent damage, it's crucial to repair any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and stop leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows leaking. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. Also, you should examine the window's flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't missing or rotten. A rotten or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing drip caps isn't difficult and typically a simple task of buying an entirely new one and putting it in the right spot.

It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. They can employ a tool to determine 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 will need to be replaced. This is a cost-effective repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows aren't closing properly, it could cause a number of issues, such as drafts condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also be an indication that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. There are a few options you can do to resolve the issue.

To fix your window properly it is essential to create a space that is well-lit. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that could be leaking from the window as you work.

You should also use a white cloth that has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. 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 start working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes are filled. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb. Also, make sure that you drill the new holes approximately a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle. You can then order an alternative online or bring the old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Now your uPVC windows should shut without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't working properly. This could be a security problem and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to ensure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges have to be the same size in order to fit in the window frame. The most popular type of hinge used in upvc repairs windows is a standard 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialized types of window hinges for different kinds of frames like wooden frames. The right type of hinge can help you avoid the common issues with your windows.

The hinges on your windows could be slack or stiff for several reasons. The most common reason is that the hinges are not sufficiently tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge. Loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can offer an immediate fix. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your window hinges and provide you with 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.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important component of home security. They make it very difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. When a lock fails it could be frustrating, however it's an simple fix and you don't have to replace the entire window.

It is often an issue that could have been easily avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our yearly maintenance plan to reduce the likelihood of any problems.

Most modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, however should they not be maintained in a timely manner, they may start to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times per year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as quickly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working correctly, it could be a problem with locking gearboxes within the frame. This can be difficult to access as it requires the removal of the seals around the frame of the window and then taking the handle off.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able diagnose this fault quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This quick and easy fix can save you hundreds by avoiding the need to purchase new windows.