uPVC Window Repairs Across London — Plus Timber & Aluminium
Stiff to open, won't lock, whistling in the wind or steamed up between the panes — uPVC windows fail in a handful of predictable ways, and every one of them is a repair. We carry the common hardware and fit like-for-like so the window works as designed.
- Friction stay hinges, restrictors and egress hinges replaced
- Espag handles, gearboxes, cockspur handles and locks supplied and fitted
- Perished gaskets and draughty seals renewed
- Misted sealed units measured and replaced in the existing frame
- Trickle vents, beading and cill sealing put right
- Genuine replacement parts sourced for uPVC, timber and aluminium windows
- Draught-proofing, re-sealing and re-alignment of sagging sashes
- Repair-first approach — replacement only recommended when it genuinely makes sense
The most common uPVC window fault we're called to is a seized or corroded friction hinge. Coastal and city grime works into the stay, the window becomes heavy to open, then the handle snaps under the strain. Replacing the pair of hinges restores smooth operation and correct sash alignment in about 30 minutes per window.
A lot of London homes have windows that are ten to twenty years old — the frames are fine, but the moving parts have worn out. We carry the common hinges, gearboxes, keeps and gaskets on the van, so most jobs are diagnosed and completed in one visit. Timber and aluminium windows are repaired the same way: we source the correct parts rather than pushing a replacement window.
Where the fault is more serious — for example a whole mechanism has rusted, or a sash has warped — we'll show you exactly what's happening, quote the fix, and let you decide. No pressure to replace the whole window when a £60 part will sort it.
The second is the espagnolette mechanism inside the frame — the strip with cams and mushrooms that pulls the sash tight. When it wears the window feels loose, the room gets draughty and security drops. New gear and a handle sorts it, and the difference in how tight the window shuts is immediately obvious.
How the repair works
- 1. Identify the part A photo of the open window showing the hinge and handle is usually all we need to bring the right parts.
- 2. Swap the hardware Hinges, handles, gearboxes and gaskets fitted like-for-like, sash alignment reset.
- 3. Check the whole window We test every opener, adjust compression and point out anything else starting to wear.
Frequently asked questions
Can uPVC windows be repaired or do they need replacing?
Repaired, in nearly every case. Hinges, handles, locks, gaskets and even the glass unit are all replaceable within the existing frame. Frames only really need replacing if the profile itself is damaged or distorted.
Why is my uPVC window so stiff to open?
Almost always seized friction stay hinges. They're a wear part and replacing the pair restores smooth, light operation — trying to force it usually snaps the handle next.
Can you match old handles and hinges?
Yes. We measure the hinge stack height, track length and handle spindle rather than guessing by brand, so old and discontinued windows are still straightforward to repair.
Do you fix uPVC windows in flats and rented properties?
Regularly — we work for homeowners, tenants, landlords and managing agents across London and can invoice agents directly with photos of the completed work.
My window won't close — is it broken?
Usually not. A window that suddenly won't close is almost always a dropped hinge, a slipped keep or a jammed espagnolette. All quick fixes for a glazier and rarely a reason for a new window.
Can you repair timber and aluminium windows too?
Yes. We source hardware for timber and aluminium frames as well as uPVC, and for traditional timber sashes see our sash window repairs page for a full breakdown.
Useful guides
See also
- For snapped, floppy or stiff handles, see window and door handle replacement.
- If a window won't lock or won't open, see window lock repairs.
- Guide: uPVC window dropped.
- For damaged frames, see window frame repairs.
- For tilt and turn windows, see tilt and turn window repairs.
- For broken vents, see trickle vent replacement.
Call Mark on 07535 916982 or request a callback.