UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age, problems can arise which need repair. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It's cheaper than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. If they are not fixed, they could result in water infiltration and less effective protection against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. It is important to find a local repair or builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and tools required to deliver the best results. This will ensure that your fracture is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of DIY solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a while. For deeper cracks, tape may require to be extended on both sides.

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. It is available at most hardware stores and can be purchased for about $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools required for the job.

If your lower or upper sash isn't lifting easily it's most likely because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. It's an easy fix that can be made with the help of the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that can be completed at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked into place with ease. Also, if you have a double or triple-paned window, be sure to check that one of the panes is not broken. This is because the gases that are filling the space between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency. They should be retained, not escaping.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and cause mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent cause of leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps around the frame as well in the stone or UPVC repairs brick walls that surround your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with Flashing are two other common causes of leaking windows. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly during heavy rainstorms. Also, you should check the flashing around your window to ensure that it is well-sealed.

Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't missing or decaying. A rotted drip cap or one that's missing will allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It's as simple as purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it in place.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to measure 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 repair, but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly it can cause a number of issues, including drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It could be a sign that the windows weren't properly fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer effective. There are several things you can try to fix the issue.

To fix your window properly, you need to create a space with plenty of natural light. Begin by laying out newspaper or a blanket to shield the flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows as you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a mixture of water and detergent. This will ensure you don't leave any stains of color on your windows. When you're ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of where the hinge channel must be situated. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.

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

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one to the hardware store to purchase a new. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it out so that the set screw is able to be secured to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't working properly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can cause a security problem and prevent your home from remaining warm or cool. It's easy to get a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to make sure you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. However, there are special types of hinges for windows that can be used on different types of frames, like wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.

There are several reasons why your window hinges may have become slack or stiff. The hinges may not have been sufficiently tightened. You can test this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way.

If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges and offer you suggestions on the best solution. 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.

Locks that aren't working

upvc repair window mechanisms and locks are an essential element of security for your home. They make it extremely difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. When a lock fails it can be a frustrating experience, but it's an easy repair and you don't need to replace the whole window.

It's often a minor issue that could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of issues.

Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but if they are not maintained correctly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or close as smoothly as they used too, or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it's likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. It can be difficult to access this because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage these).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and then be able to repair the gearbox that failed to lock with an exact replacement. This is a quick and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to buy new windows.