UPVC Window Repairs

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

Wooden window repair is fairly easy for DIY enthusiasts to complete themselves. It is also cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

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

There are numerous home remedies that can be used to repair small cracks in glass. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most popular products used to keep glass that has cracked in position for a short duration. For more severe cracks the tape might need to extend beyond the crack on both sides for best results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and can be bought for about $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to 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 because the cords on the sash weights are damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished using a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that is done at home. The majority of home centers have a drip caps that are not rot free and can be easily caulked or nailed in place. Lastly, if you have a double glazed window repairs near me or triple-paned window, be certain to ensure that one of the panes is not broken. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the efficiency of the window and should not be allowed to escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it could ruin your interior and cause costly repairs. Water leaks may also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To minimize damage, it's crucial to fix any problems caused by leaky windows as soon as you can.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original state and prevent leakage. Examine for gaps and cracks around the window frame and also the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is the drainage hole is blocked or faulty flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes have not been clogged or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. It's also a good idea to inspect the flashing on the lower part of your window to ensure it's sealed correctly.

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 let water in the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as easy as buying the new one and nailing it in place.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows and ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you'll need to replace them. It's a costly fix, but worthwhile to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly it can cause a number of issues, such as drafts condensation, and an increase in energy bills. It could also indicate that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. Fortunately, there are a few ways to fix the problem.

To repair your window correctly it is necessary to set up a workspace with plenty of natural light. Begin by laying out newspaper or an old blanket to shield the flooring from any splinters or drips that might fall off the windows while you work.

Use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of detergent and water. This will ensure you don't leave any stains of color on your windows. When you are ready to start working on your uPVC windows, start by making note of where the hinge channel must be placed. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made of wood). Make sure you smooth the hole before it sets.

Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes are filled. Make sure you center it on the window jamb and drill the screw holes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your 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 that was on the shaft of the operator and file it flat so the set screw can be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should shut easily.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have been damaged or aren't functioning properly and you are unable to open or close the window, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can be a security issue and could also hinder your home from staying warm or cold. You can easily purchase an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be of the same width to fit in the frame of the window. The most commonly used hinges for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialized types of window hinges for different types of frames, such as wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows can assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, such as not closing properly.

There are a variety of reasons your window hinges could have become slack or stiff. One common cause is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. To check, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge. Then loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it either way.

Contact Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work correctly. We can offer a quick fix. Our technicians will examine the condition of your hinges, and UPVC Window Repairs give you advice on the most suitable solution. We can repair or replace your window hinges and retension them. We can also install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC windows are safe and secure.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window repair near me locks and mechanisms are an essential component of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be a frustrating experience when a lock fails, but you don't need to replace the entire window.

It is often an issue that could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. We suggest having your uPVC window maintained regularly as part of our yearly maintenance program to minimize the chance of any problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They work by pushing the nose end of the handle on the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are extremely efficient in keeping windows closed, however over time they can start 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 quickly as they used to or If the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox within the window frame. It can be difficult to access this because it requires the removal of the seals that surround the frame and removing the handle (be cautious not to damage these).

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