UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age issues can develop that require repair. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in windows made of uPVC can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress and less effective protection against cold weather and even the possibility of structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the required skills and experience as well as the right equipment to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse, and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

There are numerous home solutions that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most commonly used products that will hold cracked glass in place for a time. For cracks that are more extensive, 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 bought for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the right tool for the job like a soldering iron.

If you notice that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. This is an easy fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be replaced at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed or caulked in place with ease. Verify that the glass in double glazed window Repairs or triple-paned window is not cracked. This is because the gasses that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can cause damage to your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and cause mold growth. To prevent damage, it's important to address any issues caused by leaky windows immediately.

The most common reason for window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original state and prevent leakage. It's also important 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 an issue with Flashing are two other typical causes of windows that leak. Make sure that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, double glazed window repairs particularly after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing around the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It's also important to make sure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that is missing allows water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a drip cap isn't difficult, and it's typically a simple task of buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can utilize a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. It's a costly fix but it's worth it to ensure the safety 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 an increase in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn away. There are a few options you can try to solve the issue.

To fix your window properly, you need to create a space with ample natural light. Start by laying down newspaper or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters and drips from the windows as you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will stop any stains of color appearing on your windows. Mark the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole that you have filled 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 approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement online or bring the old one to the hardware store to purchase a new. Finally, back out the setscrew on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw is able to lock onto the shaft (photo). Then, your uPVC windows should be closing without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't functioning properly. This can cause problems with security and prevent your home from being cool or warm. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's important that you use the correct type of hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be of the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. However, there are specialised types of hinges for windows that can be used on different types of frames, such as wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.

The hinges on your windows could be stiff or loose for a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges are not properly securing. 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.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't functioning as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the most suitable solution. We can replace hinges on windows, retension them or install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important component of security for your home. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. If a lock fails, it could be frustrating, however it's an simple fix and you don't need to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's a minor issue that could have been prevented when you had regular maintenance. This is why we suggest having your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

Modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping windows closed, however over time they can start to fail if they're not properly maintained. We suggest lubricating with WD-40 at least once per year.

If you notice your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as quickly as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there may be a problem with locking gearboxes inside the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch the seals).

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and be able replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.