UPVC Window Repairs

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

DIY people can fix wooden windows with ease. It's less expensive than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major issue. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress, less effective protection against cold weather and even the possibility of structural damage. It is essential to locate a local repair or builder that specialises in repairing uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure your crack is repaired quickly before it gets any worse, and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

There are a variety of home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most popular products used to keep glass that has cracked in position for a short duration. For more severe cracks the tape may have to extend past the crack on both sides for best results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the tools needed for the job.

If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily it's most likely because the cords on the sash weights are damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be easily repaired at home. Most home centers carry drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily nailed or caulked in place. Verify that the glass in double-paned or triple-paned window is not damaged. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window and should not escape.

Water Leaks

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

The most common reason for window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows that leak. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are free and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It is also important to check the window's flashing to ensure that it's properly sealed.

It's also crucial to make sure that your drip cap does not have any rot or is missing. A rotted or missing drip cap will 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 difficult. It's as easy as purchasing the new one and nailing it in place.

It's an excellent idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness with a professional. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness and strength of your windows and ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will need to replace them. This is a cost-effective repair, but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it can lead to a number problems, including condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It can be a sign that the windows weren't well fitted when they were installed or that the sealant is no longer working. There are fortunately, a few things you can do to fix the problem.

The first step is to set up your workspace in a space with plenty of natural light to repair your window in a timely manner. Begin by laying down newspaper or an old blanket to shield the flooring from any splinters and drips from the windows as you work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth which has been soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure that 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 fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes have been filled. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb and make sure you drill the new screw holes about one quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring your old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, pull out the setscrew on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should shut without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your upvc window repairs near me windows if the hinges are broken or not working correctly. This could be a security risk and could also hinder your home from staying warm or cold. It is easy to get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be the same size to fit in the window frame. The most commonly used hinge used in windows made of uPVC is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are special types of window hinges for different types of frames, like wooden frames. The correct type of hinge can help you avoid common problems with your windows.

There are several reasons why your window hinges could have become slack or stiff. One common cause is that the hinges aren't properly securing. You can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge and loosen it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you have the desired result.

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

Faulty Locks

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

It's usually a minor issue that could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance. We suggest that you have your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our yearly maintenance package in order to reduce the likelihood of having any issues.

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 effective in locking the window, however should they not be maintained correctly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a couple of times a year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to, or when the lock isn't working correctly, it could be a problem with the locking gearboxes inside the frame. This can be difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals around the frame of the window and then taking off the handle.

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