UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and help to reduce heating bills. As they age, however, problems can occur that need to be addressed. This can include faulty handles, hinges, or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the necessary skills, experience and equipment to ensure the most effective results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

There are numerous home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a brief period of time. For deeper cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides for optimal results.

Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the proper tool for the job like a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it's most likely because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be accomplished using the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be easily replaced at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Also, if you have a double or triple-pane window, be sure to check that one of the panes isn't broken. This is because the gasses that fill the space between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be kept, not escaping.

Water Leaks

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

A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical cause of leaks. Utilizing silicone caulk can help improve the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and prevent water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing are also typical causes of windows leaking. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are free and free of obstruction, particularly during heavy rainstorms. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing that runs around the top of your window and make sure it's properly sealed.

It's also crucial to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotten or damaged drip cap can allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing a drip cap isn't a complicated job, and it's usually a straightforward process of buying the new one and putting it in place.

It's an excellent idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a professional. They can make use of a device to test 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. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause many issues, such as drafts condensation, and an increase in energy bills. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant is worn out. There are fortunately, a few options to fix the problem.

To repair your window correctly, you need to set up a workspace with ample natural light. Begin by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters and drips that may fall from windows as you work.

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

Install the hinge channel once the holes have been filled. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb. Also, make sure make sure you drill the new screw holes about one quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle protruding from underside of the handle and then order an alternative online or bring the old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it so that the set screw can secure itself to the shaft (photo). 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 correctly. This could create problems with security and prevent your home from staying warm or cool. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's essential to make sure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be of the same width to fit inside the window frame. The most common hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialized types of window hinges for other types of frames like wooden frames. The right type of hinge will help you to avoid common issues with your windows.

The hinges of your window may be loose or stiff for a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be properly tightened. To check, use a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in any direction until you have the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning properly. We can provide a quick fix. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges and give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can replace the window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for a long time to come.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential part of home security. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. It can be a frustrating experience when a lock malfunctions, but you don't need to replace the entire window.

Often the problem can be a small issue that could have been prevented by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window doctor near me cleaned regularly as part of our annual maintenance package in order to decrease the chances of any problems.

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

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it used to or if the lock doesn't work properly, there could be an issue with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. It can be difficult to access this because it requires the removal of seals around the frame and removing the handle (be careful not to scratch these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and be able replace the failed locking gearbox with an exact replacement. This is a quick and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to buy new windows.