UPVC Window Repairs

upvc repair windows are energy efficient and aid in reducing heating costs. However, as they age issues can develop that require repair. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.

Wooden window repair is fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It can be cheaper than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in uPVC windows can be a major issue. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress, less effective barriers against cold temperatures and the possibility of structural damage. It is crucial to find an experienced local repair or builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and can demonstrate the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the most effective results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse, and you won't have 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 super glue are among the most common products that will hold cracked glass in place for a while. For more severe cracks the tape might need to extend beyond the crack on both sides for best results.

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. Hardware stores typically offer this product at around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right tool for the job, UPVC repair like a soldering iron.

If you find that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting it could be because the cords connected to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that is done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be replaced at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed and caulked into place with ease. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window isn't damaged. This is because the gasses that are leaking out between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could ruin the interior of your house and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. It is important to fix any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible to limit damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a typical reason for leaks. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and stop leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame, and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are the other two common causes of leaking windows. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing on the lower part of your window to make sure it's properly sealed.

Lastly, it's important to check that your drip cap isn't broken or decaying. A rotten drip cap or one that's not there allows water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky is not a difficult task. It's as simple as buying a new one, and nailing it into place.

It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a professional. They can use a special instrument to test the water-tightness and strength of your windows and make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you will have to replace them. It's a costly repair however it's worthwhile to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could cause various issues, such as drafts condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could be a sign that the windows were not properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer effective. There are a few options you can do to solve the problem.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space with plenty of natural light to repair 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 may come from the window while you work.

You will also want to make use of a white cloth that has been immersed in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure that you don't leave any stains of color on your windows. When you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by making a note of where the hinge channel must be located. Then remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are made of wood). Make sure you smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Be sure to place it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Next, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring the old one to a hardware store for matching. Then, take out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator and smooth it out so that the set screw can lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should shut smoothly.

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 could cause an issue with security and stop your home from being cool or warm. You can easily get a new hinge for your uPVC window. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same size to fit in the window frame. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. The right type of hinge will allow you to avoid the common issues with your windows.

There are many reasons why your window hinges may have become slack or stiff. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. You can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the other side of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in any direction until you get the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges aren't working as they should, you can contact 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 replace your window hinges, re-tension them, or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for the long haul.

Locks that aren't working

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

Often the problem can be a small issue that could have been prevented when you had regular maintenance. This is why we suggest getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose of the handle onto a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but when they are not maintained correctly, over time they could begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a few times per year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as quickly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't function correctly, it could be a problem with the locking gearboxes in the frame. It can be difficult to access as it requires the removal of the seals around the frame of the window and then taking the handle off.

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and be able to replace the gearbox that failed to lock with a precise replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.