UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be addressed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

Wooden window repair can be relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It's cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress, less effective protection against cold weather and even the possibility of structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the required skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to achieve the best 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.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of home-based solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For deeper cracks, tape may need be extended on both sides.

Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. This is available from most hardware stores and can be purchased for around $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the proper tool for the job, like a soldering iron.

If you notice that your lower or upper sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be easily replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed and caulked in place with ease. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double glazed window repairs-paned window is not cracked. This is because the gases that are filling the space between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your home 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 windows that leak as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent reason for leaks. The use of silicone caulking can improve the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame as well as the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is the drainage hole is blocked or faulty flashing. Verify that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. You should also look at the windows' flashing to ensure that it is well-sealed.

It's also essential to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any decay or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that is missing allows water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky is not a difficult task. It's as simple as buying a new one, and nailing it into place.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they comply with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, you'll have to replace them. This is a costly fix but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could cause a number of issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also mean that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. There are a few things you can try to solve the issue.

The first step is to set up an area with plenty of natural light to repair your window correctly. Begin by laying out newspapers or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips from the windows while you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. Mark 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 your frames are made from wood). Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

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

Next, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can order an alternative or bring it to a shop selling hardware to find a suitable replacement. Remove the setscrew from the shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should close without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or aren't functioning correctly. This could be a security issue and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. It's simple to find a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to ensure that you have the correct hinge for your windows.

The hinges have to be the same size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most common type of hinge used in Upvc windows is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are specialised types of window hinges for other types of frames like wooden frames. The proper hinge will allow you to avoid common problems with your windows.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff for a variety of reasons. The hinges might not be sufficiently tightened. To check this, use an electric screwdriver to find the friction screw on the hinge's end. Loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust it by turning it in either direction until you have the desired result.

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

Faulty Locks

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

Sometimes, the issue is a minor issue that could have been prevented by regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our annual maintenance program to decrease the chances of having any issues.

The majority of modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, however should they not be maintained properly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as easily as they used too, or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is an issue with the gearbox that locks the window frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage the seals).

A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able diagnose this fault quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.