UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they get older, however, issues can occur that need to be addressed. This could include damaged hinges, handles or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows with ease. It's cheaper than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is fixed before it gets worse and that you don't need to replace your window glass or upvc Repairs window unit.

There are many home-based solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in the glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used products used to keep glass that has cracked in position for a short duration. For deeper cracks the tape might need to extend beyond the crack on both sides to get the optimal results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. This is available from most hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the correct tool for the job such as a soldering iron.

If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily it's because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. This is an easy fix that can be done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that can be done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. Check that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window isn't broken. The reason for this is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the energy efficiency of the window. They should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. To avoid damage, it's important to fix any problems caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

The most common reason for window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame, and also the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. It's also recommended to examine the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and ensure that it's sealed properly.

It's also crucial to ensure that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotten or missing drip cap will let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing drip caps isn't an arduous task and is typically a simple task of purchasing a new one and nailing it into the correct position.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to measure your windows' water-tightness and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. It's an expensive fix, but worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could cause many issues, including drafts, condensation and an increase in energy bills. It could also indicate that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn away. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem.

The first step is to set up a workspace in a room that has plenty of light to fix your window correctly. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any splinters or drips that may come from the window while you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will prevent any stains of color from 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 with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are made from wood). Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Once the holes are filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Make sure it is aligned with the window jamb and make sure you drill the holes for the new screws about a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can order an alternative or bring it to a shop selling hardware for matching. Finally, back out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and smooth it out so that the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should close without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or aren't functioning properly. This could create an issue with security and stop your home from remaining cool or warm. It's simple to purchase an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's important that you use the correct type of hinge for your windows.

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

There are several reasons why your window hinges may have become stiff or loose. The hinges might not be tightened enough. To test this, take an electric screwdriver to find the friction screw on the hinge's end. Loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work correctly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best option for you. We can repair or replace your window hinges, retension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure.

Faulty locks

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

It is often an issue that could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. This is why we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of having problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose of the handle over a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping windows closed, however with time, they may begin to fail if they are not properly maintained. We recommend applying WD-40 to the lock at least once per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as quickly as they used to, or If the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. It can be difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the window frame and taking the handle off.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs is able to identify the problem quickly and will then be able to replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a exact replacement. This quick and simple fix can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to buy new windows.