UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age problems can arise which need repair. This can include faulty hinges, handles or window repair locks.

Wooden window repairs can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be much cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. It is important to find an expert local repair or builder who specializes in fixing uPVC frames and has the expertise, experience, window repair and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it gets any worse and that you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed with a range of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that can keep cracked glass in place for a time. For deeper cracks, tape may need be extended on both sides.

Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the tools required for the job.

If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily it's because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is another simple repair that can be completed at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed and caulked in place with ease. Also, if you have a double glazed window repairs- or triple-paned window, be sure to make sure that one of the panes is not broken. This is due to the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could ruin the interior of your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. To prevent damage, it's crucial to fix any problems caused by windows that leak as soon as you can.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common reason for leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame, and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing that runs around the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It's also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A rotted drip cap or one that is missing allows water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't a complicated job, and it's generally a simple process of purchasing the new one and nailing it into the correct position.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can use a tool to test the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. It's a costly repair, but is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it could result in a myriad of problems, including condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It could also mean that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn away. There are several things you can do to solve the problem.

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

You should also use a white cloth which has been immersed in a solution of water and detergent. This will stop any color stains from appearing on your windows. When you are ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of where the hinge channel should be placed. Unscrew the channel, and then 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 once the holes have been filled. Make sure you center it on the window jamb and then drill the new screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Next, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle and order an alternative online or bring the old one in to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, 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 be closing smoothly.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't functioning correctly. This could be a security risk and can also stop your home from staying warm or cold. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's crucial to choose the right type for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be the same width to fit inside the window frame. The most popular type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The proper hinge will help you to avoid common problems with your windows.

There are several reasons why the hinges on your windows have become slack or stiff. The most common reason is that the hinges are not properly securing. To check, use a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the hinge's end. Loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it either way until you get the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not 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 most suitable solution. 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 a long time to come.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important component of home security. They make it very difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. It can be frustrating when a lock fails, but you don't need to replace the entire window.

It's often an issue that could have been easily prevented by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of having problems.

The majority of modern uPVC windows come with locks that operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, however should they not be maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as quickly as they used too, or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox within the window frame. This is often difficult to access because it requires removing the seals that surround the window frame and taking off the handle.

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and will then be able to repair the damaged gearbox for locking with a precise replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.