UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows can cut heating costs and are energy efficient. As they age, however, problems may develop that need to be fixed. This can be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows relatively easily. It's cheaper than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and tears in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress, less effective barriers against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. It is important to find a local repair or builder who specializes in the repair of upvc window repair near me frames and can demonstrate the expertise, experience, and tools needed to produce the best 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.

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 to hold cracked glass in position for a short time. For cracks that are more extensive, tape might need to be extended on both sides.

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It is available at most hardware stores and can be purchased for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy and make sure you have the correct tool for the job like a soldering iron.

If you find that your upper or lower sash has difficulty raising it could be because the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be made using a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that can be done at home. The majority of home centers have a rot-free drip cap that can be easily caulked or nailed in place. If you have a double- or triple-pane window, be sure to check that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is that the gases that are trapped between the windows are responsible for improving the efficiency of the window. This should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your home and can cause mold growth. To avoid damage, it's crucial to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as you can.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent reason for leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original state and stop leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame as well as the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is a blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly in the aftermath of a heavy downpour. It's also an excellent idea to check the flashing around the top of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

Finally, it's essential to make sure that your drip cap isn't damaged or decaying. A rotten or missing drip cap will allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the drip cap isn't an arduous task, and it's usually a straightforward process of buying an entirely new one and nailing it into place.

It's an excellent idea to have your windows checked for water-tightness by a professional. They can utilize a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows to make sure that they meet industry standards. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. This is a costly fix, but it's worth it for the security and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't close properly, it could lead to a number of problems, such as drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy costs. It can be an indication that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant is no longer effective. Fortunately, there are some ways to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space with plenty of natural light to fix 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 could be leaking from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. Mark 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 inside the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole that you have filled before it sets.

Once the holes are filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Make sure you center it on the window jamb, and drill the new screwholes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.

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

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or aren't working properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could be a security problem and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to make sure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same width to fit inside the window frame. The most common hinge for uPVC windows are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, like wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the common issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

The hinges of your window may be loose or stiff for a variety of reasons. The hinges might not be properly tightened. To check this, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust it by twisting it in any direction until you get the desired result.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your upvc window repairs near me window's hinges don't work correctly. We can provide an immediate solution. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges for your windows and provide you with the best solution for you. We can repair or replace your window hinges, retension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe.

The locks are not working properly

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

Sometimes, the issue is a small issue that could have been avoided when you had regular maintenance. This is why we suggest that you have your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of having problems.

Modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks that work by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, however if they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.

If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and close as smoothly as they used to or if the lock is not functioning properly, it's likely that there is a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. This can be difficult to access because it requires removing the seals around the frame of the window and then taking the handle off.

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