Window Repairs Tips From The Best In The Industry
UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and can help reduce heating costs. As they age, however, problems may arise that require to be fixed. This can be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can fix wooden windows relatively easily. It can also be cheaper than a new replacement window.
Cracks
Cracks and breaks can be a major problem. 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 should have the required skills, experience and equipment to get the most effective results. This will ensure that the fracture is repaired quickly before it gets worse and you won't have to replace your window unit or glass.
Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of home-based solutions. Super glue and masking tape are among the most commonly used products that can keep cracked glass in place for a while. For cracks that are more extensive, tape might need to be extended on both sides.
Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to repair broken or cracked glass. Most hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make window repairs near me that your workspace is ready prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, ensure you have all the equipment necessary for the job.
If your upper or lower sash is difficult to raise, it's likely because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. Thankfully, this is an easy fix that can be done with the help of the ladder and a flat-head screwdriver. A damaged dripcap can be repaired at home. Rot-free drip caps are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed or caulked in place with ease. Make sure that the glass of a triple- or double-paned window is not broken. The reason for this is that the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the efficiency of the window and should not 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 the growth of mold. To avoid damage, it's crucial to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as possible.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a frequent cause of leaks. Using silicone caulking 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 as in the stone or brick walls surrounding your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or an issue with flashing are also common causes of leaking windows. It's important to check that the drainage holes are free and unclogged, especially during heavy rainstorms. It is also important to examine the windows' flashing to ensure it is well-sealed.
Lastly, it's important to make sure that your drip cap isn't missing or damaged. A drip cap that is rotten or one that's missing will allow water from above to seep into your window and cause structural damage. Replacing a leaky drip cap isn't difficult. It's as easy as purchasing an entirely new one and nailing it into place.
A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can make use of a device to measure the water-tightness of your windows and ensure that they comply with the standards of the industry. If your windows fail the test, they will need to be replaced. This is a costly repair but it's worth it for the comfort and security of your family.
Sagging
If your windows don't shut properly, it could result in a myriad of issues including drafts, condensation and an increase in your energy bills. It could also be an indication that the windows were not installed correctly or the sealant is worn out. There are a few things you can do to solve the problem.
The first step is to prepare a workspace in a room with plenty of natural light to help repair your window properly. Start by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters and drips that might fall off the windows as you work.
Use a white cloth, soaked in a mixture of water and detergent. This will help prevent any stains of color appearing on your windows. Mark the the hinge channel on your uPVC window when you are ready to begin working. Then unscrew the channel from the frame and fill in the screw holes with epoxy (for uPVC windows) or wood filler (if your frames are constructed of wood). Be sure to scrape the hole you have filled before it sets.
Install the hinge channel once the holes have been filled. Be sure to center it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes about a quarter-inch away from the original locations.
Then, take a measurement of the length of the spindle that protrudes from underside of the handle and then order a replacement online or bring your old one to an hardware store to get a matching. Remove the setscrew off the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to secure onto the shaft. Now, your uPVC window should close smoothly.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges are damaged or aren't working properly, you will find it difficult to open or close the window. This could create a security problem and prevent your home from remaining cool or warm. You can easily get an entirely new hinge for your uPVC window. However, it's important to ensure you have the right hinge for your windows.
This is because the hinges have to be the same size to fit in the window frame. The most commonly used hinge used in Upvc windows is an 15mm or 18mm UPVC window hinge. There are also hinges specifically designed for wooden frames. The proper hinge will allow you to 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 tightened enough. You can check this with a screwdriver. locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. After that, you can adjust the hinge by twisting it in any direction until you get the desired result.
Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't working correctly. We can offer an immediate fix. Our experts will assess the condition of your window hinges and advise you on the best solution for you. We can repair or replace the window hinges, re-tension them or install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC windows are safe and secure for a long time to come.
Locks that aren't working
UPVC window locks and mechanism are a very important part of the security of your home, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. When a lock fails it can be frustrating, but it is a quick and easy repair and you don't have to replace the entire window.
It is often an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented with regular maintenance. This is why we recommend getting your uPVC windows serviced regularly with our annual maintenance program to minimize the risk of issues.
Modern uPVC windows come with espagnolette locks that work by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block and then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective at locking the window, but when they are not maintained in a timely manner, they can begin to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every few times per year.

If you find that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as easily as it did in the past, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there may be a problem with locking gearboxes within the frame. This is often difficult to access since it requires the removal of the seals around the frame of the window, and removing the handle.
A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able to diagnose this fault quickly, and then replace the malfunctioning locking mechanism using a precise replacement. This is a fast and simple fix that could save you hundreds of pounds by not having to purchase new windows.