UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. However, as they age, problems can arise which need repair. This can be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress and less effective protection against cold temperatures and the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in repairing uPVC frames. They must possess the necessary knowledge, experience and UPVC repairs equipment to get the best results. This will ensure that your shattered window is repaired before it gets any worse and that you don't need to replace the window glass or window unit.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired by using a variety of home-based solutions. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most common products to hold cracked glass in place for a short duration. For more severe cracks, the tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and is available for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the equipment necessary for the job.

If you notice that your upper or lower sash has difficulty raising, it is likely because the cords that connect to the sashweights are damaged. This is a simple fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a different repair that can be done at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at a majority of home centers and can be secured with nails and put in place using caulk. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window isn't cracked. The reason for this is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could cause damage to the interior of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home as well as the growth of mold. To prevent damage, it's crucial to fix any problems caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.

The most common reason for window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. It is also essential to look for gaps and cracks around the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with Flashing are two other typical causes of windows leaking. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after heavy rain. You should also look at the window's flashing to ensure that it's properly sealed.

Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't broken or decaying. A rotted or missing drip cap will allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a drip cap isn't difficult, and it's generally a simple process of buying an entirely new one and putting it in the right spot.

It's an excellent idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can employ a tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they comply with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. This is a cost-effective repair, but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it can result in a myriad of issues, such as condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant is worn out. There are several things you can do to solve the problem.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with ample natural light to fix your window in a timely manner. Begin by laying out newspaper or a blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows as you work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth which has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. This will stop any color stains from appearing on your windows. Note the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel and fill the screw holes inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

After the holes have been filled you can reinstall the hinge channel. Make sure you center it on the window jamb, and drill the new screwholes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can either order an alternative or bring it to a local hardware store for matching. Then, pull out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator and smooth it so that the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Then, your uPVC windows should shut smoothly.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't working properly. This can cause a security problem and prevent your home from staying cool or warm. It's simple to purchase a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. It's essential to ensure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges need to be the same size to fit in the frame of the window. The most popular type of hinge used in windows made of uPVC is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are special kinds of window hinges that are suitable for other types of frames such as wooden frames. The correct type of hinge will help you to avoid common issues with your windows.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not have been sufficiently tightened. You can test this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in either direction until you get the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning properly. We can offer a quick fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges, and give you suggestions on the best solution. We can replace your window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for a long time to come.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential part of your 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 often a minor issue that could have been easily avoided by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest having your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose of the handle on a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in 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 a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there could be an issue with the locking gearboxes within the frame. Accessing this can be tricky since it requires the removal of seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage the seals).

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs has the knowledge to diagnose this fault quickly and be able to replace the damaged gearbox for locking with an exact replacement. This is a quick and simple repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.