UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age issues can develop that require repair. This could include damaged handles, hinges, or locks.

Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It's less expensive than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and upvc repairs tears in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the required skills, experience and equipment to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse, and UPVC repairs you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most popular products that can hold broken glass in place for a time. For more severe cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides to get the best results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and is available for around $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the equipment necessary for the job.

If your lower or upper sash is difficult to raise it's most likely because the cords on the sash's weights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a different repair that can be done at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily nailed or caulked in place. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window is not damaged. The reason is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window and should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can ruin the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home as well as mold growth. It's important to address any issues caused by leaky windows immediately to prevent the damage.

The most common reason for window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and prevent leakage. It's also important to check for gaps and cracks around the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows that leak. Check that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It is also important to ensure that your drip cap isn't broken or damaged. A rotten or missing drip cap will let water in the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing drip caps isn't an arduous task, and it's typically a simple task of buying an entirely new one and putting it in the correct position.

It's recommended to have your windows checked for water-tightness with a professional. They can use a special instrument to test the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll require replacement. It's a costly repair, but worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause various issues, such as drafts condensation and an increase in energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant is worn out. There are several things you can try to resolve the issue.

To fix your window properly, you need to create a space that is well-lit. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window during your work.

You will also want to use a white cloth which has been submerged in a solution containing water and detergent. This will ensure you don't leave any color stains on your windows. If you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of where the hinge channel must be situated. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made from wood). Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

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

Then, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can request an alternative or bring it to a shop selling hardware to find a suitable replacement. Then, remove the setscrew from the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to be locked onto the shaft. Then, your uPVC windows should shut smoothly.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or are not functioning correctly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security problem and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. It's easy to get a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It's important that you use the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be of the same width to fit inside the window doctor frame. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

There are many reasons why your window hinges could be loose or stiff. The most common reason is that the hinges are not tightened enough. To check this, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the hinge's end. Loosen it. After that, you can adjust it by turning it in either direction until you get the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the most suitable solution. We can repair or replace your window hinges and retension them. We can also install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial component of security for your home. They make it extremely difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. It can be a hassle when a lock fails, but you don't have to replace the entire window.

Often the problem can be a minor issue that could have been prevented when you had regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of having problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose end of the handle on the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, however should they not be maintained correctly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as easily as they used too, or when the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is an issue with the gearbox that locks the window frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult since it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and removing the handle (be careful not to scratch these).

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and then be able to repair the gearbox that failed to lock with a precise replacement. This quick and easy fix can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to buy new windows.