UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and can aid in reducing heating costs. However, as they age, issues can develop that require fixing. This could include damaged handles, hinges or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows with ease. It's less expensive than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. If they are not repaired, they can result in water infiltration and less effective barriers against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the necessary skills, experience and equipment to ensure the best results. This will ensure that your fracture is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

There are numerous home solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Superglue and UPVC repairs masking tape are two of the most popular products to hold cracked glass in place for a brief period of time. For cracks that are more extensive, tape might need to be extended on both sides.

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

If you find that your upper or lower sash has difficulty raising it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be easily replaced at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Lastly, if you have a double- or triple-paned window, be sure to check that one of the panes is not broken. This is because the gasses that fill the space between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your home and cause mold growth. To prevent the damage, it's essential to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as you can.

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

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. Check that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. Also, you should examine the windows' flashing to ensure that it is well-sealed.

Finally, it's essential to ensure that your drip cap isn't missing or damaged. A rotted drip cap or one that's missing will allow 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 buying a new one and putting it in the right spot.

It's also a good idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness with a professional. They can use a tool to measure your windows' water-tightness and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they'll require replacement. This is a cost-effective repair, but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it could result in a myriad of issues, such as condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could also be a sign that the windows weren't well fitted when they were installed or that the sealant has stopped working. There are a few things you can do to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with ample natural light to fix your window correctly. Start by laying down newspaper or a blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters and drips from the windows while you work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth which has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will ensure that you do not leave any color stains on your windows. Note the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are constructed of wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Once the holes have been filled, you can install the hinge channel. Be sure to place it on the window jamb and drill the screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one in to a hardware store for matching. Then, remove the setscrew from the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or not working correctly. This could create problems with security and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. It's simple to purchase a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to ensure you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be of the same width to fit inside the window frame. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common issues that homeowners have with their windows, such as not closing properly.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be properly tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver and locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for you. We can replace the window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for the long haul.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential element of home security. They make it very difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. If a lock fails, it can be a frustrating experience, but it's an simple fix and you don't need to replace the whole window.

Sometimes, the issue is a small issue that could have been prevented when you had regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window replacement serviced regularly as part of our annual maintenance plan to reduce the likelihood of any issues.

The majority of 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 at locking the window, however if they are not maintained correctly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.

If you notice your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it used to, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes within the frame. It can be difficult to access this as it requires the removing of seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch the seals).

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and be able to replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a precise replacement. This is a fast and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.