Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they do not get rusty or decay.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will save you from costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. However If you have double glazed window repairs near me-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to take out the existing panes and install new ones. In this case, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.

Once the glass is removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the property until a professional can come out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap between the door and the window is significant, you may want to use an alarm system that has an opening. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's crucial to act fast to prevent the problem from getting worse.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can unscrew the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to secure them in the right position.

If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loosen. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also loosen up. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it can also be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to shut the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and also impact your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be completed by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on how severe the problem is, Window repairs the old caulking may need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you should avoid 'over-caulking'. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed window, it is more likely the issue is more with the seal rather than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or slack and blow open with a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually completed in just a few minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. It's easy to change a window hinge, but it's easier if someone else helps you to hold the frame.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which direction the window repairs - Full Write-up - should be opened.

Faulty window hinges could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain manner or because of inadequate installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a picture on our website. We will be happy to give you advice.

It is also essential to grease the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great method of doing this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window repair near me easier to open and close. It can also lower the risk of a window sticking and help prevent corrosion. This should be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this can cause an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. The interlock may also become unbalanced. This is located on the hinge side and may need to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace these.

The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals. These can become worn down or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen draughts.

One of the most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using an draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with some kind of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and they may reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you encounter any issues with your window made of upvc it is recommended to speak with a professional as soon as you can.