UPVC Window Repairs

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

Wooden window repairs can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It is also less expensive than a brand new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the required skills, experience and equipment to ensure the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that can hold broken glass in place for a few minutes. For more severe cracks, the tape may need to extend past the crack on both sides to achieve the optimal results.

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

If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it's because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. It's an easy fix that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is another simple repair that is done at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed and caulked into place with ease. Make sure that the glass of double or triple-paned window isn't broken. The reason for this is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window and must not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can damage the interior of your house and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and cause mold growth. To minimize damage, it's crucial to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

The most common reason for window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps around the frame, as well as in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with Flashing are two other common causes of leaking windows. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clear and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.

It is also important to make sure that your drip cap isn't damaged or rotten. A drip cap that is rotten or one that is missing can allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't a complicated job and usually a straightforward process of purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into the right spot.

It's recommended to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a qualified. They can utilize a special tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows to make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. It's a costly fix, but worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could lead to many problems, 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 has worn away. There are a few options you can try to resolve the issue.

In order to repair 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 protect it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window during your work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will help prevent 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 fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the filled hole before it sets.

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

Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can request a replacement or bring it to a shop selling hardware for matching. Then, remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC windows should be closing without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't working properly. This could cause problems with security and prevent your home from being warm or cool. You can easily purchase an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.

The hinges have to be the same size in order to fit in the window doctor frame. The most popular hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are special kinds of window hinges that are suitable for other types of frames like wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common problems that many homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges on your windows could be stiff or loose due to a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges are not tightened enough. You can check this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best option 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 secure and safe for a long time to come.

Faulty locks

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be frustrating when a lock fails however, you don't have to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's a minor issue that could have been avoided if you have had regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose of the handle onto the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely effective in keeping the window secure, but over time they can start to fail if not properly maintained. We suggest applying WD-40 to the lock at least once per year.

If you notice 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 in the frame. It 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 has the knowledge to identify the problem quickly and will then be able to replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a precise replacement. This simple and quick fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to buy new windows.