UPVC Window Repairs

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

Wooden window repair is fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It's cheaper than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in windows made of uPVC can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration as well as less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the risk of structural damage. It is essential to locate a local repair or builder that specialises in fixing uPVC frames and who has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired before it worsens and that you don't need to replace your window glass or window unit.

There are many home-based solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in glass. Super glue and masking tape are among the most common products that can keep cracked glass in place for a few minutes. For more severe cracks, the tape may need to extend beyond the crack on both sides for optimal results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing damaged or cracked glasses. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools needed for the job.

If you notice that your upper or lower sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords attached to the sashweights are damaged. It's an easy fix that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A rotted dripcap can also be replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed and caulked into place with ease. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window isn't cracked. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window. They should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. To prevent the damage, it's essential to fix any problems caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

One common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help improve the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps around the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are also typical causes of windows that leak. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. You should also examine the windows' flashing to ensure that it is properly sealed.

It's also essential to ensure that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A rotted or damaged drip cap can allow water to enter the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the drip cap isn't a complicated job and is usually a straightforward process of buying the new one and nailing it into the correct position.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can utilize a special tool to determine the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure they are in line with industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you will need to replace them. This is a costly fix but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly it can cause many problems, such as drafts, condensation and an increase in energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant is no longer effective. There are several things you can do to fix the problem.

The first step is to set up an area with plenty of natural light to fix your window correctly. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any drips or splinters that might be coming from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will stop any stains of color appearing on your windows. If you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of where the hinge channel should be placed. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame using 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 that it is centered on the window jamb and make sure you drill the holes for the new screws about a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can order an alternative or bring it to a shop selling hardware for a replacement. Then, take out the setscrew on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw is able to secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC window should close without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or aren't functioning properly. This could 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. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same width to fit in the window frame. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common problems that many homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons your window hinges could be loose or stiff. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. To check, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work properly. We can provide a quick fix. Our experts will assess the condition of your window hinges and advise you on the best solution for you. We can replace hinges on windows and retension them. We can also install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC windows are secure and safe.

The locks are not working properly

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial part of home security. They make it extremely difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. When a lock fails, it could be frustrating, however it is a quick and easy repair and you don't need to replace the entire window repairs near me.

Sometimes, the issue is a small issue which could have been averted if you have had regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window serviced regularly as part of our annual maintenance package in order to decrease the chances of any problems.

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

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as smoothly as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't work correctly, it could be an issue with the locking gearboxes within the 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 specialises in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to identify the problem quickly and will then be able to repair the gearbox that failed to lock with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding having to purchase new windows.