UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. As they get older, however, issues may arise that require to be fixed. This can include faulty handles, hinges or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows with ease. It can also be much less expensive than a brand new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. It is essential to locate an experienced local builder or repair service who specializes in fixing uPVC frames and has the experience, skills and tools required to deliver the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or 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 can hold broken glass in place for a while. For deeper cracks, tape might need to be extended on both sides.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair broken or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and can be purchased for around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the tools needed for the job.

If you find that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it could be because the cords connected to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a different repair that is done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at a majority of home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked into place with ease. Lastly, if you have a double glazed window repairs near me or triple-pane window, be sure to make sure that one of the panes is not broken. This is because the gasses 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 could ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To minimize the damage, it's essential to fix any problems caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common reason for leaks. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Check for cracks and gaps around the window frame, and also the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is a blocked drainage hole or a defective flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing around the lower part of your window repair to ensure that it's sealed properly.

Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't missing or rotten. A rotted or damaged drip cap can let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky isn't a daunting task. It's as simple as purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it in place.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can employ a specific tool to determine the water-tightness and strength of your windows and ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they'll have to be replaced. It's a costly repair but it's worthwhile to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could lead to a number of issues, such as drafts condensation and an increase in energy costs. It could also be a sign that the windows were not properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer effective. There are a few things you can do to resolve the problem.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space with plenty of natural light to help repair your window correctly. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window during your work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are made of wood). Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

After the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Make sure it is centered on the window jamb, and make sure you drill the new screw holes about quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order an alternative or bring it to a local hardware store for matching. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator and smooth it so that the set screw can secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now your upvc window repairs windows should close without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't functioning properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security risk and also prevent your home from being warm or cold. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It is essential to select the correct type of hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same width to fit into the frame of the window. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can help you avoid the common issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges on your windows could be stiff or loose for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is that the hinges aren't properly securing. To check this, use a screwdriver and locate the friction screw at the hinge's end. Then loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not functioning as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the best solution. We can replace window hinges and retension them. We can also install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.

Faulty locks

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential part of your home security, they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking in. When a lock fails, it can be a frustrating experience, but it's an easy fix and you do not need to replace the whole window.

It is often an issue that is minor and could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of issues.

Most modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks that work 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 should they not be maintained properly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as smoothly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes inside the frame. Accessing this can be tricky because it requires the removal of seals around the frame as well as the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage these).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able detect the issue quickly, and then replace the broken locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not the need to purchase new windows.