UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be fixed. This could include damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It can also be much less expensive than a brand new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in windows made of uPVC can be a major issue. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. It is crucial to find an expert local builder or repair service that specializes in the repair of uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired before it worsens and you don't have to replace your window glass or window unit.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a brief time. For deeper cracks the tape might need to extend beyond the crack on both sides to achieve the optimal results.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair broken or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores offer this product at around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the equipment needed for the job.

If you find that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it could be because the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. It's an easy fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be easily repaired at home. The majority of home centers have a rot-free drip cap that can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double glazing-paned window is not damaged. The reason is because the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window. They must not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could cause damage to the interior of your house and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. To minimize the damage, it's essential to repair any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

The most common cause of window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. The use of silicone caulking can bring the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and prevent water leakage. It's also important to look for cracks and gaps around the frame as well in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is blocked drainage holes or faulty flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly during heavy rainstorms. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing that runs around the lower part of your window to make sure it's properly sealed.

It's also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A rotten drip cap or one that's missing can allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn't difficult. It's as simple as buying an entirely new one and nailing it in place.

It's an excellent idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness with a professional. They can employ a specific tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows to make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you will need to replace them. It's a costly fix however it's worthwhile 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 a rise in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. Fortunately, there are some options to correct the issue.

To repair your window correctly, you need to set up a workspace with ample natural light. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from drips or splinters that might be coming from the window as you work.

You should also use a white cloth which has been immersed in a solution of water and detergent. This will stop any stains of color from appearing on your windows. When you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of where the hinge channel should be placed. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are made of wood). Make sure to smooth out the filled hole before it sets.

Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure you center it on the window jamb, and then drill the new screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle and order a replacement online or bring your old one in to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and smooth it out so that the set screw will secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC windows should shut smoothly.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or are not functioning correctly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could cause an issue with security and stop your home from staying warm or cool. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right type for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also hinges specifically designed for UPVC window repairs wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, like not closing properly.

There are many reasons why your window hinges may have become stiff or loose. One common cause is that the hinges are not sufficiently tightened. To check this, use a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the hinge's end. Release it. After that, you can adjust it by twisting it in any direction until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for your needs. We can replace your 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.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are a very important part of your home security, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking in. If a lock fails, it can be frustrating, but it's an easy repair and you don't need to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's an issue that could have been avoided if you have had regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our yearly maintenance program to reduce the likelihood of any issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose end of the handle on the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping windows locked, but over time, they could begin to fail if not properly maintained. We recommend applying WD-40 to the lock a couple of times per year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it used to or when the lock isn't working correctly, it could be a problem with the locking gearboxes in the frame. It can be difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals around the window frame and taking off the handle.

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able detect the issue quickly, and then replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.