UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems may arise that require to be fixed. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows with ease. It can be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. If they are not repaired, they can cause water infiltration and less effective barriers against cold temperatures and the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the required skills, experience and equipment to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired before it worsens and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of home-based solutions. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a short duration. For deeper cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides for best results.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair damaged or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the tools needed for the job.

If you find that your upper or lower sash isn't lifting it is most likely due to the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a different repair that can be completed at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be nailed or caulked in place with ease. Check that the glass of double or triple-paned window repair is not damaged. The reason for this is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window. They should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to 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 is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize the damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent cause of leaks. The use of silicone caulking can bring the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and uPVC window repairs prevent water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame as well as the stone or brick wall that surrounds your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is a blocked drainage hole or a defective flashing. Check that the drainage holes haven't been blocked or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. Also, you should examine the windows' flashing to ensure it is properly sealed.

It's also crucial to make sure that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that's not there can allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as easy as buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.

It's recommended to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can use a tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will require replacement. This is a costly fix but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows aren't closing properly, it could lead to various problems, such as drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It could also indicate that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant has worn away. Fortunately, there are some options to fix the problem.

To fix your window properly, you need to set up a workspace with plenty of natural light. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. When you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of where the hinge channel should be located. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

Once the holes are filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Be sure to center it on the window jamb, and drill the screw holes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can request a replacement or bring it to a local hardware store for a replacement. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and smooth it so that the set screw will be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should be closing easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't functioning properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security issue and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. It's simple to purchase an entirely new 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 the same size to fit in the window frame. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for other types of frames like wooden frames. The right type of hinge will help you to avoid common issues with your windows.

There are several reasons why your window hinges could be loose or stiff. The hinges might not be sufficiently tightened. You can check this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't working as they should, you can contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your window hinges and recommend the best option for you. 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 years to come.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial component of security for your home. They make it difficult to open windows 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 is minor and could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend that you have your uPVC windows checked regularly by our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping the window secure, but over time, they could begin to fail if they're not properly maintained. We suggest using WD-40 for lubrication every couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or close as smoothly as they used to, or when the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. This can be difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the window frame and taking off the handle.

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to diagnose this fault quickly 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 not having to purchase new windows.