UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are energy efficient and can aid in reducing heating costs. However, as they age problems can arise which need repair. This can include faulty handles, hinges or locks.

Wooden window doctor repair is fairly simple for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It's less expensive than buying a brand new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can be a major problem. If they are not repaired, they can lead to water ingress and less effective barriers against cold weather and even the risk of structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of uPVC frames. They must have the necessary skills, experience and equipment to ensure the most effective 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 by using a variety of DIY solutions. Masking tape and superglue are two of the most commonly used products to hold cracked glass in place for a short period of time. For more severe cracks, the tape might need to be extended on both sides.

Alternatively, two-part epoxy can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and can be bought for around $10. Make sure that your workspace is prepared prior mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have the proper tool for the job like a soldering iron.

If your upper or lower sash isn't lifting easily it's due to the fact that the cords on the sash weights are damaged. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that can be made with the help of a ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is another simple repair that can be done at home. The drip caps that are not rot-free are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed or caulked into place with ease. If you have a double glazing or triple-pane window, make sure to make sure that one of the panes is not broken. The reason for this is that the gases in the space between the windows are responsible for improving the energy efficiency of the window. They must not escape.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could cause damage to the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also cause structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth. To prevent damage, it's important to fix any problems caused by windows that leak immediately.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent reason for leaks. Utilizing silicone caulk can help bring the condition of the seal back to its normal condition and stop water leakage. It's also important to look for gaps and cracks around the frame as well as in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are also typical causes of windows that leak. 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 a good idea to inspect the flashing on the bottom of your window and ensure it's sealed correctly.

It is also important to ensure that your drip cap isn't missing or damaged. A damaged or damaged drip cap could let water in the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the leaky drip cap isn't a daunting task. It's as simple as purchasing a new one, and nailing it into place.

It's recommended to have your windows tested for water-tightness by a professional. They can employ a tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows, and ensure that they comply with 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 security and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows do not shut properly, it could cause a variety of issues, such as condensation, drafts and a rise in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant has worn out. Fortunately, there are some options to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to fix your window correctly. Start by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window as you work.

Use a white cloth, soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will ensure you don't leave any color stains on your windows. When you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, start by making a note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be situated. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are made from wood). Be sure to scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

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

Next, measure the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle and then order an alternative online or bring the old one in to a hardware store for matching. Then, pull out the setscrew that was on the operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw can lock onto the shaft (photo). Now, your uPVC windows should close smoothly.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges have broken or are not functioning correctly then you'll find it difficult to open or close the window. This could be a security risk and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. It's simple to find a new window hinge for your uPVC windows. But, it's crucial to make sure you have the correct hinge for your windows.

The hinges must be the same size 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 special hinges for wooden frames. The proper hinge can help you avoid the common issues with your windows.

The hinges of your window may be loose or stiff for a variety of reasons. One common cause is that the hinges aren't sufficiently tightened. To check this, use a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the end of the hinge. Release it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning properly. We can offer an immediate solution. Our experts will assess the condition of the hinges on your windows and advise you on 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 years to come.

Locks that aren't working

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential part of security for your home. They make it extremely difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. It can be a hassle when a lock malfunctions, but you don't have to replace the entire window.

Often the problem can be a minor issue which could have been averted if you have had regular maintenance. This is why we suggest having your uPVC windows maintained regularly using our yearly maintenance package to minimize the risk of having problems.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are very efficient in keeping windows closed, however with time, they may begin to fail if they're not properly maintained. We suggest lubricating with WD-40 every couple of times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening and closing as smoothly as it used to or when the lock isn't working properly, there may be a problem with locking gearboxes in the frame. Accessing this can be tricky because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage these).

A locksmith who specializes in UPVC repair will be able identify the problem quickly, and then replace the failed locking mechanism with an 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.