UPVC Window Repairs

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

DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows fairly easily. It's less expensive than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in uPVC windows 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 potential for structural damage. It is essential to locate a local builder or repair service that specializes in fixing uPVC frames and can demonstrate the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it worsens and you don't have to replace your window glass or unit.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most common products to hold cracked glass in place for a brief duration. For cracks that are more extensive, the tape may need to extend past the crack on both sides for optimal results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix damaged or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and can be purchased for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right tool for the job, like a soldering iron.

If you notice that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it is most likely due to the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be accomplished with the help of an extension ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily repaired at home. Most home centers carry rot-free drip cap that can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Verify that the glass in double or triple-paned window isn't damaged. This is due to the gases that are filling the space between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows immediately to prevent the damage.

One common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original state and prevent leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps around the frame as well in the brick or stone walls that surround your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective Flashing are two other typical causes of windows leaking. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and ensure that it's sealed properly.

It's also essential to check that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotten drip cap or one that is missing can allow water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't an arduous task and usually a straightforward process of buying the new one and putting it in the correct position.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. 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'll need to be replaced. This is a costly repair, but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it can result in a myriad of problems, including condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It could be a sign that the windows weren't well fitted when they were installed or that the sealant has stopped working. There are several things you can try to fix the problem.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space with plenty of natural light to help repair your window in a timely manner. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window as you work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth which has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by marking where the hinge channel must be situated. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure it's centered on the window jamb. Also, make sure that you drill the new screw holes about quarter inch away from the original locations.

Next, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order a replacement or bring it to a shop selling hardware for matching. Then, remove the setscrew from the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to be locked onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should be closing smoothly.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or are not functioning correctly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This could be a security risk and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. It's simple to purchase a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be of the same width to fit inside the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialized types of window hinges for other types of frames like wooden frames. Choosing the correct window doctor hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

Your window hinges could be stiff or loose due to a variety of reasons. The hinges might not be tightened enough. To check, use an electric screwdriver to find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning correctly. We can provide an immediate fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the best solution. We can 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 a crucial component of security for your home. 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 easy fix and you do not have to replace the entire window.

It's often an issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our annual maintenance program to reduce the likelihood of having any issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with locks that operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very efficient in keeping windows closed, however over time, they could begin to fail if they're not properly maintained. We recommend lubricating with WD-40 every couple of times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window doctor isn't opening and closing as quickly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes in the frame. This can be difficult to access as it requires removing the seals that surround the window frame and removing the handle.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs is able to identify the problem quickly and then be able replace the gearbox that failed to lock with a precise replacement. This is a fast and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.