UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems may arise that require to be fixed. This can include faulty handles, hinges or locks.

DIY people can fix wooden windows relatively easily. It's cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows can be a serious problem. If they are not fixed, they could cause water infiltration and less effective barriers against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the required skills, experience and Window Repairs equipment to get the best results. This will ensure that your crack is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace the window glass or window unit.

There are numerous home solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that can keep cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For deeper cracks, tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix damaged or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right tool for the job, for example, a soldering tool.

If your upper or lower sash is difficult to raise it's because the cords that connect the sash's weights have been damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be done using the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be repaired at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at most home centers and can be nailed or caulked in place with ease. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window is not broken. The reason is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window. This should not escape.

Water Leaks

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

The most common reason for window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It's also important to look for cracks and gaps around the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. Verify that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after heavy rain. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing around the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It's also essential to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotted drip cap or one that's not there can allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't difficult and usually a straightforward process of buying the new one and nailing it into the right spot.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can utilize a special instrument to test the water-tightness of your windows and ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll have to be replaced. It's a costly fix however it's is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't 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 well installed or the sealant has stopped working. Fortunately, there are a few ways to fix the problem.

The first step is to set up a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to help repair your window in a timely manner. Start by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips that may fall from windows as you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will ensure that you don't leave any color stains on your windows. If you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by marking where the hinge channel should be situated. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

After the holes have been filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Be sure to center it on the window jamb and then drill the new screw holes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle and order a replacement online or bring the old one in to a hardware store for matching. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window repairs near me should shut smoothly.

Broken Hinges

There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't functioning properly. This can be a security risk and can also stop your home from staying warm or cold. It's simple to find an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's important that you use the right type for your windows.

The hinges need to be identical in size to fit in the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are specialised types of window hinges for other types of frames such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, like not closing properly.

Your window hinges may be loose or stiff due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not have been tightened enough. You can check this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can provide an immediate solution. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for you. We can repair or replace the window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for the long haul.

The locks are not working properly

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

It's often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our annual maintenance program to minimize the chance of having any issues.

Modern uPVC windows have locks that operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping windows locked, but over time they can start to fail if not properly maintained. We recommend applying WD-40 to the lock 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 when the lock isn't functioning properly, it's likely that there is an issue with the gearbox that locks the window frame. Accessing this can be tricky since it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and then be able to replace the failed locking gearbox with a exact replacement. This quick and easy fix can save you hundreds of dollars by not the need to purchase new windows.