UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they get older, problems may arise that require repair. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repair (click through the next page) can be fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It's less expensive than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

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

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of DIY solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used products to hold cracked glass in place for a brief duration. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.

Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. This is available from most hardware stores and can be purchased for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the right equipment for the job, for example, a soldering tool.

If you notice that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it could be because the cords connected to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is another simple repair that is done at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at a majority of home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked into place with ease. Check that the glass of double glazed window repairs or triple-paned window is not broken. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and the growth of mold. To minimize damage, it's crucial to repair any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common reason for leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Look for gaps and cracks between the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are also typical causes of windows leaking. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the lower part of your window to ensure that it's sealed properly.

Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't broken or damaged. A rotted drip cap or one that is missing will allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't a complicated job, and it's generally a simple process of buying the new one and putting it in place.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a specific tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you'll need to replace them. This is a costly fix, but it's worth it for the comfort and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it can cause a variety of issues including drafts, condensation and a rise in your energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant is no longer working. There are fortunately, a few ways to fix the problem.

In order to repair your window properly it is necessary to create a space with plenty of natural light. Start 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 as you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any color stains on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made of wood). Be sure to smooth the filled hole before it sets.

Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb and that you drill the holes for the new screws about quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can order an replacement or take it to a shop selling hardware for matching. Finally, back out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it so that the set screw is able to secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't functioning properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security problem and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. You can easily get a new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to make sure you have the right hinge for your windows.

The hinges need to be identical in size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are specialised types of hinges for windows that can be used on different kinds of frames like wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, window repair for example, not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons the hinges on your windows have become slack or stiff. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't properly securing. To test this, take a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the hinge's end. Release it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in any direction until you achieve the desired result.

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

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential component of home security. they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it's an easy fix and you do not have to replace the entire window.

It is often an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend that you have your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose of the handle on a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, however when they are not maintained properly, over time they could begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times per year.

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

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able replace the failed locking gearbox with a exact replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.