UPVC Window Repairs

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

DIY people can fix wooden windows with ease. It can be cheaper than purchasing a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress as well as less effective barriers against cold weather, UPVC repairs and even the possibility of structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They should have the required skills, experience and equipment to get the most effective results. This will ensure that the crack is repaired swiftly before it gets any worse, and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.

Small cracks in glass can be repaired with a range of home-based solutions. Masking tape and super glue are among the most commonly used products that will hold cracked glass in place for a time. For more severe cracks the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides to achieve the best results.

Additionally, two-part epoxy can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores sell this product for about $10. Make sure your workspace is prepped before mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the right tool for the job, like a soldering iron.

If you find that your lower or upper sash isn't lifting, it is likely because the cords connected to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be replaced at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed and put in place using caulk. Lastly, if you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to check that one of the panes are not broken. This is because the gases that are filling the space between the panes are responsible for improving energy efficiency. They should be retained and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could cause damage to the interior of your house and result in costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and cause mold growth. It is important to fix any problems caused by leaking windows right away to minimize damage.

The most common reason for window leaks is damaged sealant around the frame. Silicone caulking can restore the seal to its original condition and prevent leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window doctor near me frame, and also the brick or stone wall surrounding your windows.

Another reason that can cause leaks in windows is blocked drainage holes or faulty flashing. It's important to check that the drainage holes are clean and unclogged, especially after a heavy rainstorm. Also, you should check the window's flashing to ensure that it's properly sealed.

It's also important to ensure that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotten drip cap or one that's not there allows water from above to enter your window and cause structural damage. Replacing the drip cap that is leaky is not a difficult task. It's as easy as purchasing a new one, and nailing it into place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can use 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 have to be replaced. It's a costly repair but it's worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly it can cause various problems, such as drafts, condensation and a rise in energy costs. It could also indicate that the windows weren't installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. There are several things you can do to fix the problem.

The first step is to set up an area with ample natural light to help repair your window correctly. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any splinters or drips that could be leaking from the window as you work.

You should also make use of a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will ensure that you don't leave any color stains on your windows. When you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be situated. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if frames are constructed from wood). Be sure to scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.

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

Then, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle and order a replacement online or bring your old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Then, take out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw is able to be secured to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should be closing easily.

Broken Hinges

There will be a problem opening or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't functioning properly. This can cause an issue with security and stop your home from being warm or cool. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's crucial to choose the right hinge for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be the same size to fit inside the window frame. The most popular hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm hinges for windows. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Choosing the correct window hinge for your windows will assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, such as not closing properly.

The hinges of your window could be stiff or loose due to a variety of reasons. The hinges may not have been properly tightened. To check, use an electric screwdriver to locate the friction screw at the end of the hinge. Loosen it. Then, you can adjust it by twisting it either way until you have the desired result.

If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, call Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges and offer you advice on the best solution. We can replace your window hinges, adjust them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe for the long haul.

Faulty locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an important element of home security. They make it difficult to open a window without breaking into the house. If a lock fails, it can be frustrating, but it's an easy fix and you do not need to replace the entire window.

Sometimes, the issue is a minor issue which could have been averted by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of issues.

The majority of modern uPVC windows come with locks that operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very efficient in keeping windows secure, but over time, they could begin to fail if they're not properly maintained. We suggest applying WD-40 to the lock a couple of times per 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 a problem with the locking gearbox within the window frame. Accessing this can be tricky as it requires the removing of the seals that surround the frame and removing the handle (be cautious not to damage these).

A locksmith who specialises in UPVC repairs will have the expertise to identify the problem quickly and then be able to replace the gearbox that failed to lock with an exact replacement. This quick and simple fix can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to purchase new windows.