UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and help reduce heating costs. However, as they get older, problems can arise which need repair. This could include damaged handles, hinges or locks.

Wooden window repair can be fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to do themselves. It is also cheaper than a new replacement window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures in uPVC windows can be a serious problem. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress and less effective protection against cold weather, and even the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who is skilled in the repair of uPVC frames. They must possess the necessary knowledge and experience as well as the right equipment to get the best results. This will ensure your crack is repaired swiftly before it gets worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of DIY solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most popular products that can keep cracked glass in place for a time. For deeper cracks, the tape may need to extend past the crack on both sides to get the optimal results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing broken or cracked glasses. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and is available at a cost of around $10. Make sure your workspace is prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the tools needed for the job.

If your lower or upper sash is difficult to raise, it's likely because the cords that connect the sash weights are damaged. It's an easy fix that can be accomplished with the help of an extension ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that can be completed at home. The majority of home centers have a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily nailed or caulked to be fixed. Lastly, 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 gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the energy efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, this can cause damage to your home and lead to costly repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home and mold growth. To minimize the damage, it's essential 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's also important to look for gaps and cracks around the frame, as well as in the stone or brick walls that surround your windows.

Another common reason for leaking windows is blocked drainage holes or faulty flashing. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly during heavy rainstorms. It's also recommended to examine the flashing that runs around the lower part of your window repairs to ensure that it's sealed properly.

It's also essential to make sure that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotted or damaged drip cap can allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to your home's structure. Replacing a drip cap isn't a complicated job, and it's usually a straightforward process of buying the new one and nailing it into the correct position.

It's recommended to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a qualified. They can use a tool to test the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they meet the standards of the industry. If your windows don't pass the test, you'll need to replace them. This is a cost-effective repair but it's worth it for the comfort and safety of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it can cause a variety of problems, including condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It could also indicate that the windows weren't properly installed or the sealant has worn away. Fortunately, there are some options to fix the issue.

The first step is to set up an area that has plenty of light to fix your window in a timely manner. Start by laying down newspaper or a blanket to shield the flooring from any splinters and drips from the windows as you work.

You will also want to use a white cloth that has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. This will ensure that you do not leave any color stains on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to start working. Unscrew the channel, and then 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.

Once the holes are filled, you can install the hinge channel. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb and make sure you drill the holes for the new screws about quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can order a replacement or bring it to a hardware shop for a replacement. Finally, back out the setscrew that was on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it so that the set screw can secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or aren't working properly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could create a security problem and prevent your home from remaining warm or cool. You can easily get a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's important that you use the right hinge for your windows.

The hinges must be the same size in order to fit inside 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 like wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will assist you in avoiding the common problems that many homeowners face with their windows, such as not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons your window hinges may be loose or stiff. The hinges might not be sufficiently tightened. You can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge, and then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in either direction.

If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your hinges, and give you advice 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 a long time to come.

Faulty Locks

upvc window repair window mechanisms and locks are an essential component of home security. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the home. It can be a frustrating experience when a lock malfunctions, however, you don't have to replace the entire window.

It is often a minor issue that could have easily been avoided by regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our annual maintenance program to reduce the likelihood of any problems.

The majority of modern uPVC windows have locks that operate 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, but if they are not maintained properly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every couple of times a year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as quickly as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't function properly, there may be an issue with the locking gearboxes within the frame. The process of removing this gearbox can be difficult as it requires the removing of the seals around the frame and removing the handle (be cautious not to damage these).

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs is able to quickly identify the issue and will then be able replace the failed locking gearbox with an exact replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of dollars by cutting out the need to purchase new windows.