UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be addressed. This could include damaged handles, hinges or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows relatively easily. It can also be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress and less effective barriers against cold temperatures and the possibility of structural damage. It is important to find a local repair or builder that specialises in repairing uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the fracture is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

There are many home-based solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most popular products to hold cracked glass in position for a short period of time. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix damaged or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and is available at a cost of around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the proper tool for the job, such as a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily, it's likely due to the fact that the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. It's an easy fix that can be made using a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is another simple repair that can be done at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed and caulked into place with ease. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window repair is not cracked. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the efficiency of the window. This should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your house and cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and the growth of mold. It's important to address any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical cause of leaks. Utilizing silicone caulk can help restore the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It is also essential to look for cracks and gaps in the frame as well as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows leaking. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clear and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing that runs around the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It is also important to check that your drip cap isn't broken or rotten. A rotten 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 difficult. It's as simple as buying the new one and nailing it in place.

It's recommended to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can make use of a device to measure the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows don't pass the test, you'll have to replace them. It's an expensive fix, but is worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant has worn away. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix the issue.

To repair your window correctly it is essential to set up a work space with ample natural light. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from drips or splinters that may come from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a mix of detergent and water. This will stop any stains of color appearing on your windows. If you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, start by marking where the hinge channel must be situated. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

After the holes have been filled, Window Repairs 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.

Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can request a replacement or bring it to a local hardware store for matching. Then, remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC window should be closing easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't working properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause a security problem and prevent your home from being warm or cool. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be of the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are special kinds of window hinges that are suitable for other types of frames such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for Window Repairs your windows will aid in avoiding common issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges of your window could be stiff or loose for several reasons. The hinges might not be sufficiently tightened. You can test this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way.

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 hinges and offer you suggestions on the best solution. We can repair or replace your window hinges, retension them or install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are safe and secure.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential part of your home security, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. When a lock fails, it could be frustrating, however it is a quick and simple fix and you don't need to replace the whole window.

Sometimes, the issue is a minor issue that could have been prevented if you have had regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our yearly maintenance plan to reduce the likelihood of having any issues.

Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, however if they are not maintained properly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as easily 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 because it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window, and removing the handle.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able to identify the problem quickly, and then replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.