UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be fixed. This can be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in windows made of uPVC can be a major issue. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress as well as less effective protection against cold weather, and even the possibility of structural damage. It is important to find an experienced local builder or repair service that specialises in repairing uPVC frames and who has the experience, skills and tools required to deliver the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse, and you don't need to replace your Window Repair unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most common solutions to hold glass damaged in position for a short period of time. For more severe cracks, the tape may require to be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix damaged or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the correct equipment for the job, such as a soldering iron.

If you find that your lower or upper sash has difficulty raising, it is likely because the cords that connect to the sashweights have been damaged. It's an easy fix that can be made using an extension ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is another simple repair that can be completed at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily nailed or caulked in place. Also, if you have a double or triple-pane window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes is not broken. The reason for this is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window. This should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could cause damage to your interior and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home as well as the growth of mold. To avoid damage, it's important to address any issues caused by leaky windows immediately.

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

Another reason for leaky windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, particularly after a heavy downpour. It's also recommended to examine the flashing around the lower part of your window to make sure it's properly sealed.

Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't missing or damaged. A rotten or damaged drip cap can 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 generally a simple process of purchasing the new one and nailing it into place.

It's recommended to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can employ a tool to measure your windows' water-tightness and make sure they are in compliance with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. It's a costly fix but it's is worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could also indicate that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant is worn out. Fortunately, there are a few ways to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to fix your window in a timely manner. Begin by placing newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will ensure you don't leave any color stains on your windows. Note the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure to smooth out the hole that you have filled before it sets.

Once the holes are filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Be sure to place it on the window jamb, and then drill the new screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can either order an replacement or take it to a hardware shop for matching. Then, remove the setscrew from the shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Now your uPVC windows should shut easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window repairs near me hinges are damaged or are not functioning correctly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security issue and can also stop your home from staying warm or cold. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's essential to ensure that you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges need to be the same size 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 will help you avoid the typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges on your windows could be stiff or loose due to a variety of reasons. The hinges might not be tightened enough. To check this, use an electric screwdriver to find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by twisting it in either direction until you achieve the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't working as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine the condition of the hinges on your windows and advise you on the best solution for your needs. 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.

The locks are not working properly

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

Sometimes, the issue is a minor issue that could have been avoided when you had regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with 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 on the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping the window secure, but over time they can start to fail if not properly maintained. We suggest lubricating with WD-40 at least once per year.

If you notice your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as quickly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes in the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult as it requires the removing of the seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage the seals).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able diagnose this fault quickly, and then replace the broken locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.