UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and aid in reducing heating costs. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be addressed. This could include damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

Wooden window repairs can be fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. Unrepaired windows can cause water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the required skills, experience and equipment to ensure the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it gets any worse and you don't need to replace the window glass or window replacement unit.

There are a variety of home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a time. For deeper cracks, the tape may need to extend beyond the crack on both sides for best results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix damaged or cracked glasses. The majority of hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the tools required for the job.

If you find that your upper or lower sash is having difficulty lifting it is most likely due to the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. Fortunately, this is a simple repair that can be accomplished using a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be repaired at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at most home centers and can be nailed and caulked into place with ease. Verify that the glass in double glazing repair or triple-paned window isn't damaged. This is because the gases that fill the space between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. To minimize damage, it's important to fix any problems caused by leaky windows immediately.

The most common reason for window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps in the frame as well as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is blocked drainage holes or a defective flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. You should also examine the window's flashing to ensure it is well-sealed.

Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't broken or damaged. A rotten or damaged drip cap could 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 is typically a simple task of purchasing an entirely new one and putting it in the right spot.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can employ a specific instrument to test the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will require replacement. This is a costly fix, but it's worth it for the comfort and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause many issues, including drafts, condensation and an increase in energy costs. It can be a sign that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant has stopped working. Fortunately, there are some things you can do 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. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from drips or splinters that may come from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth, UPVC repairs soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will ensure that you don't leave any stains of color on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes are filled. 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.

Next, measure the length of the spindle protruding from underside of the handle and then order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one to a hardware store for matching. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then file it flat so the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should be closing easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't functioning properly 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 cool or warm. It's simple to purchase a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's crucial to choose the correct type of hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same size to fit in the window frame. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, like not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons the hinges on your windows have become slack or upvc Repairs stiff. The hinges may not have been tightened enough. To check, use a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in any direction until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't functioning as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges and give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can replace your window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for a long time to come.

Faulty locks

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

Most of the time, it's a small issue that could have been avoided when you had regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose end of the handle on the wedge block, then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely effective in keeping the window locked, but with time, they may begin to fail if they're not properly maintained - we recommend using WD-40 for lubrication at least once per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as easily as they used too, or when the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is an issue with the gearbox that locks the window frame. Accessing this can be tricky because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able to replace the damaged gearbox for locking with a precise replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.