UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and help to reduce heating bills. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be addressed. This can include faulty hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It can be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in uPVC windows could be a serious problem. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress, less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the risk of structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the required skills, experience and equipment to get the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse, and you won't have 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 superglue are two of the most popular products used to keep glass that has cracked in place for a brief duration. For more severe cracks, the tape may need to extend past the crack on both sides to achieve the optimal results.

Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Hardware stores typically sell this product for about $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools necessary to complete the task.

If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it's due to the fact that the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be done with the help of the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be replaced at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at most home centers and can be nailed or caulked in place with ease. Lastly, if you have a double glazing or triple-paned window, be sure to check that one of the panes are not broken. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the energy efficiency of the window and should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can ruin your interior and installed cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows right away to minimize damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Utilizing silicone caulk can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water 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.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows that leak. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. It is also important to check the windows' flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

It's also crucial to check that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A drip cap that is rotten or one that's not there will allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap isn't difficult and is usually a straightforward process of purchasing a new one and nailing it into the right spot.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to test the water-tightness of your windows, and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they'll need to be replaced. This is a costly fix however it's worth it for the security and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could cause various issues, such as drafts condensation and an increase in energy costs. It could be an indication that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant is no longer working. There are a few things you can try to fix the issue.

To fix your window properly, you need to create a space with ample natural light. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. If you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, start by making a note of where the hinge channel must be located. 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.

Once the holes are filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb. Also, make sure that you drill the holes for the new screws about a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order a replacement or bring it to a local hardware store for matching. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and smooth it so that the set screw can secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should be closing without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or aren't functioning correctly. This could be a security issue and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. It's simple to purchase a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most popular hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.

The hinges on your windows may be loose or stiff for several reasons. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. You can test this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning properly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the best solution. We can replace hinges on windows and retension them. We can also install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of your home security, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. When a lock fails it could be frustrating, however it is a quick and easy repair and you don't have to replace the entire window.

It's usually an issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend that you have your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose of the handle onto a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely effective in keeping the window closed, however with time, they may begin to fail if they are not properly maintained - we recommend lubricating with WD-40 a couple of times per year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as quickly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working correctly, it could be a problem with locking gearboxes within the frame. This is often difficult to access as it requires removing the seals that surround the frame of the window and then taking the handle off.

A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a fast and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to buy new windows.