UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. As they age, however, problems may arise that require to be fixed. This could include damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in uPVC windows can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress and less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the possibility of structural damage. It is important to find a local builder or repair service who specializes in repairing uPVC frames and can demonstrate the skills, upvc Window repairs experience and tools needed to produce the best results. This will ensure your fracture 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 with a range of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a brief period of time. For deeper cracks, tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair broken or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the proper tool for the job, like a soldering iron.

If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily it's most likely because the cords that connect the sash weights are damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be made using an extension ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is a different repair that can be done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window is not damaged. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the efficiency of the window repair near me. They should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your home and cause mold growth. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows immediately to prevent the damage.

The most common reason for window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. The use of silicone caulking can improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It is also essential to look for cracks and gaps around the frame as well in the brick or stone walls that surround your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. Check that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing around the lower part of your window to make sure it's properly sealed.

It's also crucial to make sure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotten or damaged drip cap can let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It's as simple as purchasing a new one, and nailing it in place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can use a special instrument to test the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll require replacement. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could result in a myriad of problems, including condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It can be an indication that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant is no longer effective. Fortunately, there are some ways to correct the issue.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space that has plenty of light to help repair your window correctly. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from drips or splinters that may come from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will stop any stains of color from appearing on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are constructed from wood). Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can request an alternative or bring it to a shop selling hardware for matching. Then, remove the setscrew from the shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Now 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 warm or cool. It's easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to ensure that you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges need to be the same size to fit into the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are specialised kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, such as wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common issues that homeowners face with their windows, like not closing properly.

Your window hinges may be loose or stiff for several reasons. One of the most common causes is that the hinges aren't tightened enough. 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 are able to adjust the hinge by twisting it in any direction until you get the desired result.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. 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 replace hinges on windows or retension them, or even 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. It can be a hassle when a lock malfunctions, but you don't need to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's an issue that could have been prevented when you had regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend that you have your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of having problems.

Most modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very efficient in keeping the window locked, but with time, they may begin to fail if they're not properly maintained. We recommend lubricating with WD-40 a couple of times per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening and close as smoothly as they used to or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is a problem with the gearbox that locks 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 taking the handle off.

A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to buy new windows.