UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age problems can arise which need repair. This could include damaged handles, hinges, or locks.

Wooden window repair can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It is also cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. It is important to find a local builder or repair service that specialises in fixing uPVC frames and has the experience, skills and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it worsens and you don't have to replace the window glass or window unit.

There are a variety of home solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in the glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a brief duration. For deeper cracks the tape might need 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. Hardware stores typically offer this product at around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the proper equipment for the job, for example, a soldering tool.

If your upper or lower sash is difficult to raise it's most likely because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a different repair that can be done at home. Most home centers carry rot-free drip cap that can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Lastly, if you have a double glazed window repair- or triple-paned window, be sure to check that one of the panes are not broken. This is due to the gases that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency and should be retained, not escaping.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To minimize damage, it's crucial to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Using silicone caulking can help bring the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame, upvc window repairs as well as the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. Check that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. It's also recommended to examine the flashing on the top of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.

It's also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotten drip cap or one that's not there will allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky is not a difficult task. It's as easy as buying an entirely new one and nailing it in place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can utilize a special tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows and ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. This is a costly fix but it's worth it for the comfort and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause a variety of issues, such as condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could be an indication that the windows were not properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer working. There are fortunately, a few ways to fix the problem.

The first step is to set up an area with plenty of natural light to help repair your window properly. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any drips or splinters that may come from the window during your work.

It is also recommended to make use of a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will help prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. When you are ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be located. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are constructed from wood). Make sure to smooth out the hole that you have filled before it sets.

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

Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can request an alternative or bring it to a shop selling hardware to find a suitable replacement. Finally, back out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and file it flat so the set screw is able to be secured to the shaft (photo). 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 aren't working correctly. This could create an issue with security and stop your home from staying warm or cool. It's simple to purchase an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's important that you use the right hinge for your windows.

The hinges must be the same size in order to fit into the window frame. The most popular type of hinge used in windows made of uPVC is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the common issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges on your windows could be slack or stiff for a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges aren't tightened enough. To test this, take a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work properly. We can provide an immediate solution. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best option for you. We can repair or replace your window hinges or retension them, or even install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC windows are secure and safe.

The locks are not working properly

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are a very important part of the security of your home, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. When a lock fails, it can be a frustrating experience, but it is a quick and easy repair and you don't need to replace the entire window.

It is often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our annual maintenance package in order to decrease the chances of any problems.

Modern uPVC windows have locks that operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, however when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every couple of times a year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as quickly as it did in the past, or when the lock isn't working properly, there could be an issue with the locking gearboxes in the frame. Accessing this can be tricky as it requires the removing of the seals that surround the frame and the removal of the handle (be cautious not to damage these).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a fast and simple repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.