UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. However, as they age, problems can arise which need fixing. This can be due to damaged handles, hinges, or locks.

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

Cracks

Cracks and breaks in windows made of uPVC can be a serious issue. Leaving them unrepaired can lead to water ingress and less effective barriers against cold weather and even the possibility of structural damage. It is essential to locate an expert local repair or builder that specializes in repairing uPVC frames and has the expertise, experience, and equipment required to achieve the most effective results. This will ensure that your shattered window is repaired before it gets any worse and that you don't need to replace the window glass or window unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed 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 place for a short period of time. For deeper cracks, tape may need be extended on both sides.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy for repairing broken or cracked glasses. It is available at most hardware stores and is available at a cost of around $10. Make sure that your workspace is ready before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools needed to complete the task.

If you notice that your upper or lower sash isn't lifting it is most likely due to the cords attached to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that can be done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a rotted drip cap is a different repair that can be done at home. Many home centers stock a drip caps that are rot-free and can be easily caulked or nailed to be fixed. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window is not broken. The reason is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for increasing the energy efficiency of the window. They must not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows are leaking, it can cause damage to the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your house and cause mold growth. To avoid damage, it's important to repair any issues caused by leaky windows as soon as possible.

The most common cause of window leaks is the damage to the sealant around the frame. Utilizing silicone caulk can help bring the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. It's also important to check for gaps and cracks around the frame as well in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or faulty flashing are the other two typical causes of windows that leak. Verify that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, particularly after heavy rain. You should also check the window's flashing to ensure it is properly sealed.

It's also crucial to make sure that your drip cap does not have any decay or is missing. A rotten drip cap or one that's missing allows water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap isn't a complicated job, and it's typically a simple task of purchasing the new one and putting it in place.

It's also a good idea to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a professional. They can use a tool to test your windows' water-tightness and ensure that they comply with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they will have to be replaced. It's a costly repair however it's worth it to ensure the safety and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not close properly, it can result in a myriad of issues, such as condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows were not properly installed or the sealant is worn out. There are a few things you can do to resolve the problem.

The first step is to prepare your workspace in a space that has plenty of light to help repair your window replacement in a timely manner. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to protect it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window while you work.

It is also recommended to use a white cloth which has been submerged in a solution containing detergent and water. 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 start working. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes inside the frame using epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure that it is centered on the window jamb and make sure you drill the new holes approximately quarter inch away from the original locations.

Then, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from the underside of your handle. You can then order an alternative online or bring the old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Finally, back out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator, and then file it flat so the set screw is able to be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should close smoothly.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken 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 could create an issue with security and stop your home from being warm or cool. It is easy to get a new hinge for UPVC repairs your uPVC window. But, it's crucial to ensure you have the right type of hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges have to be the same width to fit inside the frame of the window. The most common type of hinge used in uPVC windows is a standard 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. However, there are special kinds of window hinges that are suitable for other types of frames such as wooden frames. Finding the right window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common problems that many homeowners encounter with their windows, like not closing properly.

The hinges on your windows may be loose or stiff for a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be properly tightened. To check, use a screwdriver to find the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Loosen it. You can then 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 window hinges and provide you with the best solution for your needs. We can replace the window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for the long haul.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window locks and mechanisms are an essential component of home security. they make it extremely difficult to open the window without breaking. When a lock fails it could be frustrating, however it's an easy fix and you do not need to replace the whole window.

Most of the time, it's a minor issue which could have been averted if you have had regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our annual maintenance program to minimize the chance of any problems.

Modern uPVC windows are equipped with espagnolette locks. These work by pushing the nose end of the handle on a wedge block, and then turning it to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but when they are not maintained properly, over time they could 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 shut as quickly as they used to or if the lock is not functioning properly, it's likely that there is an issue with the gearbox that locks the window frame. This can be difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals around the window frame and removing the handle.

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to diagnose this fault quickly and then be able replace the damaged gearbox for locking with an exact replacement. This simple and quick fix could save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.