UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age, issues can develop that require fixing. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress as well as less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the potential for structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your shattered window is repaired before it gets any worse and you don't have to replace your window glass or unit.

There are many home-based solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in the glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most commonly used products to hold cracked glass in place for a short period of time. For deeper cracks, the tape may need to extend beyond the crack on both sides for best results.

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the correct tool for the job, like a soldering iron.

If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise it's because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be made using an extension ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is another simple repair that can be done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be nailed and put in place using caulk. Lastly, if you have a double glazing or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes isn't broken. This is because the gasses that are filling the space between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be retained, not escaping.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could damage the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your home and can cause mold growth. To minimize damage, it's crucial to address any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.

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

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, particularly after a heavy downpour. Also, you should check the flashing around your window to ensure it is properly sealed.

Finally, it's essential to make sure that your drip cap isn't damaged or rotten. A damaged or missing drip cap will let water in the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as simple as purchasing a new one, and then nailing it to the.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can use a tool to determine your windows' water-tightness and make sure they are in compliance with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll have to be replaced. It's a costly fix but it's is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not shut properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It can be an indication that the windows weren't properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer working. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to fix the problem.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room that has plenty of light to repair your window correctly. Start by laying down newspaper or an old blanket to shield the flooring from any splinters and drips from the windows as you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, start by marking the location where the hinge channel needs to be located. 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 it is aligned with the window jamb and make sure you drill the new screw holes about one quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order an replacement or take it to a shop selling hardware for matching. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Now your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or not working properly. This could be a security risk and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. It's simple to find an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. But, it's crucial to make sure you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same width to fit in the window frame. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are special types of hinges for windows that can be used on other types of frames like wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the common problems that many homeowners face with their windows, like not closing properly.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff for several reasons. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver to find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way until you have the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work properly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges and give you advice on the best 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 secure and safe.

Locks that aren't working

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

It's often an issue that could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance. This is why we recommend having your Upvc Repair windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose end of the handle onto the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, however should they not be maintained correctly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times a year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to or when the lock isn't working correctly, it could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. This can be difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals around the window frame and removing the handle.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to quickly identify the issue and will then be able replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a precise replacement. This simple and quick fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not the need to purchase new windows.