UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age, problems may arise that require repair. This could include damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It's cheaper than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows can be a serious problem. If they are not repaired, they can cause water infiltration, less effective protection against cold weather, and window repairs even the potential for structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to ensure the best results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired before it worsens and you don't need to replace your window glass or window unit.

There are numerous home solutions that can be utilized to repair small cracks in the glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used products to hold cracked glass in position for a short time. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.

You can also use two-part epoxy to repair damaged or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and is available for about $10. Ensure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the right tool for the job like a soldering iron.

If you notice that your upper or lower sash isn't lifting it is most likely due to the cords connected to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that is done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that is done at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at a majority of home centers and can be secured with nails and caulked in place with ease. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window is not cracked. The reason is because the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for improving the efficiency of the window. This should not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your home and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. It's important to address any problems caused by leaking windows as soon as possible to limit 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 condition and stop leakage. It's also important to look for cracks and gaps in the frame as well as in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is a blocked drainage hole or a defective flashing. Check that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after a heavy downpour. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing around the lower part of your window to ensure it's sealed correctly.

Finally, it's essential to check that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A rotten drip cap or one that is missing will allow water from above to get into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a drip cap isn't a complicated job and typically a simple task of buying the new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can use a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it could cause a variety of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It can also be a sign that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant has stopped working. Fortunately, there are some ways to fix the problem.

To fix your window properly, you need to set up a work space that is well-lit. Begin by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to shield the flooring from any splinters and drips that might fall off the windows while you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will stop any stains of color appearing on your windows. When you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be situated. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes have been filled. Make sure you center it on the window jamb, and drill the screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement online or bring the old one in to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. Flatten it to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should be closing without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows if the hinges are broken or not working correctly. This can be a security risk and could also hinder your home from staying warm or cold. It's simple to find a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It is essential to select the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges must be the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different kinds of frames such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows will assist you in avoiding the common problems that many homeowners have with their windows, such as not closing properly.

Your window hinges may be loose or stiff for several reasons. The hinges may not have been tightened enough. To check this, use a screwdriver and find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way.

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

Faulty Locks

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential part of home security. they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be a hassle when a lock fails but you don't need to replace the entire window.

It's usually an issue that is minor and could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our yearly maintenance program to decrease the chances of having any issues.

The majority of modern uPVC windows come with 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 efficient in locking the window, however when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they may start to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times a year.

If you notice your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there could be a problem with locking gearboxes within the frame. It can be difficult to access this as it requires the removing of the seals that surround the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage the seals).

A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able detect the issue quickly, and then replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to purchase new windows.