UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help to reduce heating bills. As they get older, however, issues may develop that need to be fixed. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows relatively easily. It is also cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in uPVC windows could be a major issue. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress and less effective barriers against cold weather, and even the potential for structural damage. It is crucial to find a local repair or builder that specialises in fixing uPVC frames and who has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most commonly used products used to keep glass that has cracked in position for a short period of time. For deeper cracks the tape might need to extend past the crack on both sides to achieve the optimal results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. This is available from most hardware stores and is available at a cost of around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Make sure you have the correct tool for the job such as a soldering iron.

If you find that your upper or lower sash isn't lifting it is most likely due to the cords attached to the sashweights are damaged. This is an easy fix that can be done using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be repaired at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are readily available at many home centers and can be nailed or caulked in place with ease. If you have a double or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes are not broken. This is due to the gases that are filling the space between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be kept, not escaping.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can cause damage to your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your house and lead to the growth of mold. To prevent the damage, it's essential to fix any problems caused by windows that leak immediately.

One common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. The use of silicone caulking can restore the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. It's also important to look for gaps and cracks around the frame as well in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is the drainage hole is blocked or a defective flashing. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing that runs around the bottom of your window and ensure that it's sealed properly.

Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A rotted drip cap or one that is missing allows water from above to enter your window repairs near me and cause structural damage. Replacing drip caps isn't difficult and typically a simple task of buying an entirely new one and putting it in the right spot.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a tool to determine your windows' water-tightness and ensure that they comply with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. It's an expensive fix however it's worthwhile to ensure the safety and upvc window repairs security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could cause various problems, such as drafts, condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could be an indication that the windows weren't well fitted at installation or the sealant has stopped working. There are a few options you can try to resolve the issue.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to fix your window properly. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that might be coming from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will prevent any color stains from appearing on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made from wood). Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.

Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Be sure to center it on the window jamb, and then drill the new screw holes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement online or bring your old one in to a hardware store for matching. Finally, back out the setscrew on the operator shaft and smooth it so that the set screw is able to lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should be closing smoothly.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't working correctly. This can be a security issue and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right type for your windows.

The hinges must be identical in size to fit in the frame of the window. The most common type of hinge used in windows made of uPVC is an 18mm or 15mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, like not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons the hinges on your windows be loose or stiff. One common cause is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. You can check this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can provide an immediate solution. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges for your windows and recommend the best solution for you. 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.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important part of security for your home. They make it difficult to open windows without breaking into the house. It can be a hassle when a lock fails but you don't have to replace the entire window.

Often the problem can be a small issue which could have been averted by regular maintenance. This is why we recommend that you have your uPVC windows checked regularly by our annual maintenance program to help reduce the likelihood of having problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping windows locked, but with time, they may begin to fail if they're not properly maintained. We recommend using WD-40 for lubrication at least once per year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows aren't opening or shut as easily as they used to or if the lock is not working properly it is likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. This is often difficult to access since it requires removing the seals around the frame of the window and then removing the handle.

A locksmith who specializes in upvc window repairs repair will be able detect the issue quickly, and then replace the broken locking mechanism with a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.