UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be addressed. This can include faulty hinges, handles, or locks.

Wooden window repair can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It’s cheaper than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in uPVC windows can be a serious issue. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress as well as less effective barriers against cold temperatures and the potential for structural damage. Find an expert local builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They should have the required skills, experience and equipment to ensure the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you won’t have to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that can hold broken glass in place for a few minutes. For deeper cracks, the tape may need to extend past the crack on both sides to get the optimal results.

Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores offer this product at around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the equipment required for the job.

If your lower or upper sash is hard to raise it’s because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that can be done with the help of the ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a different repair that is done at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Make sure that the glass of double-paned or triple-paned window is not damaged. This is because the gasses that fill the space between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can damage the interior of your house and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. It’s important to address any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible to limit damage.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Using silicone caulking can help bring the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks between the window frame and also the brick or stone wall that surrounds your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are also typical causes of windows leaking. Verify that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. You should also check the window’s flashing to ensure that it is well-sealed.

It’s also crucial to check that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotten or damaged drip cap can let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing drip caps isn’t difficult, and it’s usually a straightforward process of buying an entirely new one and nailing it into the correct position.

A professional can also check your windows for watertightness. They can use a tool to test the water-tightness of your windows, and make sure they are in compliance with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, you will need to replace them. This is a costly fix, but it’s worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don’t shut properly it can cause many issues, such as drafts condensation and an increase in energy costs. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant has worn out. There are a few things you can do to resolve the issue.

The first step is to prepare an area with ample natural light to repair your window correctly. Begin by laying out newspaper or a blanket to shield the flooring from any splinters or drips that might fall off the windows as you work.

You will also want to make use of a white cloth that has been submerged in a solution containing water and detergent. This will prevent any stains of color appearing 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 in the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Make sure you smooth the filled hole before it sets.

Install the hinge channel once the holes have been filled. Make sure that it is aligned with the window jamb, and make sure you drill the new screw holes about a quarter inch from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can request an replacement or take it to a shop selling hardware for matching. Then, UPVC repairs pull out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it so that the set screw can lock onto the shaft (photo). Now your upvc repairs; reference, windows should be closing easily.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren’t functioning correctly. This can cause an issue with security and stop your home from being cool or warm. It’s easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it’s important to make sure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

The hinges have to be identical in size to fit in the frame of the window. The most popular 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. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners have with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

There are many reasons why your window hinges could have become slack or stiff. The hinges may not be tightened enough. To check, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the hinge’s end. Loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.

If your UPVC window hinges aren’t working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will examine 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 safe and secure for years to come.

Locks that aren’t working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are a crucial component of home security. They make it very difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. It can be frustrating when a lock malfunctions, but you don’t need to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it’s a small issue that could have been avoided when you had regular maintenance. This is why we recommend that you have your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to reduce the chance of issues.

The majority of modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the handle’s nose across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very effective in keeping the window locked, but over time, they could begin to fail if they’re not properly maintained. We recommend applying WD-40 to the lock a couple of times per year.

If you notice your uPVC window isn’t opening or closing as smoothly as it used to, or when the lock isn’t working properly, there could be a problem with the locking gearboxes in the frame. This is often difficult to access because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the window frame and taking off the handle.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism using a precise replacement. This quick and easy fix can save you hundreds of dollars by not the need to purchase new windows.