UPVC Window Repairs

uPVC windows can reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age issues can develop that require repair. This can include faulty hinges, handles or locks.

DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows with ease. It is also cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and breaks can be a major issue. If they are not fixed, they could lead to water ingress as well as less effective barriers against cold temperatures and the potential for structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames. They must have the required skills, experience and equipment to ensure the best results. This will ensure that the crack is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace your window glass or unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of DIY solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular products to hold cracked glass in position for a short duration. For more severe cracks the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides to achieve the optimal results.

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

If you find that your upper or lower sash is having difficulty lifting it could be because the cords connected to the sashweights have been damaged. This is a simple fix that can be done with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a different 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 in place with ease. Lastly, if you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to make sure that one of the panes is not broken. This is because the gases that fill the space between the panes are responsible for enhancing energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC windows leak, it could ruin the interior of your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also damage the structure of your house and can cause mold growth. To minimize the damage, it's essential to fix any problems caused by leaky windows immediately.

The most common cause of window leaks is a damaged sealant around the frame. The use of silicone caulking can improve the condition of the seal back to normal and prevent water leakage. Look for gaps and cracks around the window frame and also the stone or brick wall surrounding your windows.

Another reason for leaky windows is the drainage hole is blocked or faulty flashing. Make sure that the drainage holes haven't been clogged or blocked, especially after heavy rain. Also, you should look at the window's flashing to ensure it is properly sealed.

Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't missing or damaged. A rotten or missing drip cap will allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the drip cap isn't a complicated job and typically a simple task of buying the new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you'll have to replace them. It's a costly fix, but worthwhile to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Sagging

If your windows aren't closing properly, it could cause many problems, such as drafts, condensation and a rise in energy bills. It could also mean that the windows were not installed correctly or that the sealant has worn out. There are a few options you can do to solve the problem.

The first step is to set up your workspace in a space with ample natural light to repair your window in a timely manner. Begin by laying newspaper or an old blanket on the floor to shield it from any drips or splinters that could be leaking from the window during your work.

You will also want to make use of a white cloth that has been immersed in a solution of detergent and water. This will help prevent any stains of color from appearing on your windows. When you're ready to begin working on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of where the hinge channel should be situated. Then, remove the channel from the frame and fill the screw holes using epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if the frames are made of wood). Make sure to smooth out the hole that you have filled before it sets.

Reinstall the hinge channel after the holes have been filled. Make sure it's aligned with the window jamb, and make sure you drill the new holes approximately quarter inch away from the original locations.

Next, measure the spindle that protrudes 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 operator shaft and file it flat so the set screw will secure itself to the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should shut without a hitch.

Broken Hinges

If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't working properly and you are unable to open or close the window, window repair Redbridge it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can cause a security problem and window repair Redbridge prevent your home from remaining warm or cool. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. It's important that you use the right type for your windows.

This is because the hinges need to be the same width to fit inside the frame of the window repair Redbridge. The most commonly used hinge used in windows made of uPVC is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also specialised hinges for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows can aid in avoiding common issues that homeowners encounter with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

There are several reasons why your window repair Ealing hinges may have become stiff or loose. The most common reason is that the hinges are not tightened enough. To test this, take a screwdriver to locate the friction screw on the hinge's end. Release it. Then, you can adjust it by turning it in either direction.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges don't work correctly. We can provide an immediate solution. Our technicians will examine the condition of the hinges on your windows and provide you with the best solution for your needs. We can replace window hinges, retension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are secure and safe.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window mechanisms and locks are an essential component of home security. They make it extremely difficult to open windows without breaking into the home. When a lock fails it could be frustrating, however it's an easy repair and you don't need to replace the entire window.

It's usually an issue that is minor and could have easily been avoided with regular maintenance. This is the reason we recommend having your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our yearly maintenance package to reduce the chance of issues.

Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks. They operate by putting the nose end of the handle over the block with a wedge, and then turning it to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, however should they not be maintained properly, over time they can begin to fail. We recommend lubricating them with WD-40 a couple of times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as quickly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't function correctly, it could be an issue with the locking gearboxes in the frame. It can be difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals that surround the window frame and taking off the handle.

A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able to identify the problem quickly and replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism using a precise replacement. This simple and quick fix can save you hundreds by avoiding having to purchase new windows.