UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age, problems may arise that require fixing. This can be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

Wooden window repair is fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It can also be cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows could be a major issue. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion and weaker barriers to cold weather, and even structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the required skills, experience and equipment to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure your crack is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used solutions to hold glass damaged in position for a short duration. For deeper cracks, tape may require to be extended on both sides.

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Hardware stores typically offer this product at around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the equipment required to complete the task.

If you notice that your upper or lower sash is having difficulty lifting, it is likely because the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. It's an easy fix that can be made with the help of a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is a second repair that can be done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed and caulked into place with ease. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window isn't cracked. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the energy efficiency of the window. They should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could cause damage to the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. To minimize damage, it's crucial to address any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

The most common reason for window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Using silicone caulking can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It is also essential to look for cracks and gaps in the frame, as well as in the brick or stone walls that surround your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. Also, you should check the window's flashing to ensure that it's well-sealed.

It's also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotted or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing a drip cap isn't a complicated job, and it's usually a straightforward process of buying a new one and nailing it into the correct position.

It's an excellent idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness with a professional. They can use a tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, you will have to replace them. It's a costly fix however it's worthwhile to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could lead to a number of issues, such as drafts condensation and a rise in energy bills. It could also be a sign that the windows were not properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer working. There are fortunately, a few options to fix the issue.

To repair your window correctly it is necessary to create a space with ample natural light. Start 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 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. 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 using epoxy (for upvc repairs windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made of wood). Make sure you smooth the filled hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and then drill the new 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 replacement or take it to a hardware shop to find a suitable replacement. Then, uPVC repairs remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. File it flat to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC windows should be closing without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't working properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This can cause an issue with security and stop your home from remaining warm or cool. It's easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC windows. It is essential to select the right type for your windows.

The hinges need to be the same size in order to fit in the window frame. The most popular type of hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are special kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the common issues that homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons the hinges on your windows be loose or stiff. The hinges may not be properly tightened. You can test this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it in either direction.

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

Faulty Locks

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential component of home security. they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. If a lock fails, it can be frustrating, but it's an simple fix and you don't have to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's a minor issue which could have been averted by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend having your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of issues.

Most modern uPVC windows have locks that operate by pushing the handle's nose 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 may start to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a few times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening and shut as quickly as they used to or when the lock isn't working 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 since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame and removing the handle (be cautious not to damage these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able replace the failed locking gearbox with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.