Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They do not decay or rust as aluminum and timber.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good condition.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation, you will need to source some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass so that any shards fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional comes out to repair the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging window in uPVC could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It is crucial to act when you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.

To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window to access the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to loosen. It is essential to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test fitting. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to take action if get up each morning to find mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature in your home. Most often, upvc window repairs window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any competent DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

It is important to check that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.

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

It is also important to remember that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazing-glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or loose and blow open in a breeze it could be the hinges that are at fault. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be done within a few minutes.

Like any mechanical component hinges are prone to wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process but it can be simpler when you have a person to assist in holding the frame in place.

Check that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the right direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.

The problem can be caused by opening the window improperly or by a poor installation in the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are happy to offer suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal method to accomplish this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a few various factors. First, the hinges due to wear and tear may become displaced, which will cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window and can also become misaligned, again it is possible to just give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.

These seals can wear down or get damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.

The final method to cut down on draughts effectively is by using a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

The windows made of upvc can continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it is more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult an expert as soon as you can.