UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. As they get older, however, issues can occur that need to be fixed. This can include faulty hinges, handles or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows fairly easily. It can also be much cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. If windows are not properly repaired, they can result in water intrusion and less effective barriers to cold weather, or even structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills and experience, as well as the equipment needed to get the most effective results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse, and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

There are numerous home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most common products to hold cracked glass in place for a short duration. For cracks that are more extensive, tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing damaged or cracked glasses. This is available from most hardware stores and is available for about $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure that you have all the tools required to complete the task.

If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise, it's likely because the cords that connect the sash's weights have been damaged. Thankfully, this is a simple repair that can be done with the help of a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be replaced at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily nailed or caulked in place. Verify that the glass in a triple- or double-paned window is not cracked. This is because the gases that fill the space between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could cause damage to the interior of your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as the growth of mold. To avoid damage, it's important to fix any problems caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

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

Another reason for leaky windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clear and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. It's also recommended to examine the flashing around the top of your window and ensure that it's sealed properly.

Lastly, it's important to ensure that your drip cap isn't damaged or rotten. A rotted or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above, causing damage to your home's structure. Replacing the drip cap isn't a complicated job and is generally a simple process of buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.

It's recommended to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can make use of a device to measure the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they comply with industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will need to replace them. It's an expensive fix, but worthwhile to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could lead to various issues, such as drafts condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also be an indication that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant has worn out. There are fortunately, a few things you can do to fix the issue.

To fix your window properly, you need to create a space with plenty of natural light. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that may come from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a mixture of detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any stains of color on your windows. Note the location of the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for UPVC window repair uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel after the holes have been 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 that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can then order a replacement online or bring the old one 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. Then, your uPVC windows should close easily.

Broken Hinges

You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or not working properly. This can cause a security problem and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. It's crucial to choose the correct type of hinge for your windows.

The hinges need to be identical in 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 correct type of hinge will allow you to avoid the common issues with your windows.

The hinges of your window could be stiff or loose due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be sufficiently tightened. To test this, take a screwdriver and locate the friction screw at the hinge's end. Then loosen it. Then, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it either way until you get the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can provide an immediate solution. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges, and give you advice on the best solution. 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 a long time to come.

Faulty locks

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are a very important part of home security. they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. When a lock fails it can be a frustrating experience, but it's an easy repair and you don't have to replace the entire window.

It is often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend having your upvc window repair windows checked regularly by our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

Modern uPVC windows have 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 effective at locking the window, however should they not be maintained correctly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and close as smoothly as they used to or when the lock isn't functioning properly, it's likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox within the window frame. Accessing this can be tricky because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to scratch the seals).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able to identify the problem quickly, and then replace the broken locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This quick and upvc window repair simple fix could save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to purchase new windows.