UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age, problems can arise which need fixing. This could include damaged hinges, handles or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows fairly easily. It can also be much less expensive than a brand new replacement window repairs near me.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. Leaving them unrepaired can result in water infiltration and less effective barriers against cold weather and even the potential for structural damage. It is crucial to find an experienced local builder or repair service that specialises in repairing uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired quickly before it gets 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. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that will hold cracked glass in place for a time. For more severe cracks, the tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing damaged or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the equipment required for the job.

If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise, it's likely because the cords on the sash weights have become damaged. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that can be accomplished using an extension ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a damaged drip cap is a different repair that is done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed and put in place using caulk. Lastly, if you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to check that one of the panes are not broken. This is because the gases that fill the space between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and cause mold growth. It's important to address any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent reason for leaks. Using silicone caulking can help restore the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. It's also important to check for cracks and gaps in the frame as well as in the brick or stone walls that surround your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the top of your window and ensure that it's sealed properly.

It is also important to make sure that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A rotten or damaged drip cap could allow water to enter the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the drip cap isn't difficult, and it's generally a simple process of buying an entirely new one and nailing it into the correct position.

It's recommended to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a professional. They can use a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will have to replace them. It's a costly repair, but worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly it can cause many issues, such as drafts condensation and an increase in energy bills. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant has worn away. Fortunately, there are a few ways to fix the issue.

To repair your window correctly it is necessary to set up a workspace that is well-lit. Begin by laying out newspapers or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows as you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a mix of detergent and water. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. Mark the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel and uPVC window repair fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the filled hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure that it is aligned with the window jamb and that you drill the new holes approximately one quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one in to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it out so that the set screw will lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC windows should be closing easily.

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 could cause an issue with security and stop your home from remaining warm or cool. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right type for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same size to fit into the window frame. The most popular hinge for upvc window Repair windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will aid in avoiding typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges on your windows may be loose or stiff due to a variety of reasons. One common cause is that the hinges are not properly securing. To test this, take a screwdriver and locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in any direction until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't working as they should, you can call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will evaluate the condition of the hinges on your windows and provide you with the best solution for your needs. We can repair or replace the window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for the long haul.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important element of security for your home. They make it extremely difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. When a lock fails, it can be a frustrating experience, but it's an simple fix and you don't have to replace the entire window.

Often the problem can be an issue that could have been prevented by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose end of the handle on the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, however if they are not maintained in a timely manner, 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 close as smoothly as they used to or when the lock isn't working properly it is likely that there is a problem with the gearbox that locks the window frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult as it requires the removing 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 will have the expertise to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able replace the damaged gearbox for locking with an exact replacement. This simple and quick fix could save you hundreds by avoiding the need to purchase new windows.