Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to rust or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will generally fit within the old frame very easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case you'll need to locate some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.

If you plan to attempt to remove the window panes yourself, it is essential to wear the proper safety gear, including thick gloves and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they can be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep water and Window Repair drafts from entering your home until a professional comes out to repair the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the distance between the window and the door repair is substantial, you may prefer a security screen that also has windows. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window to get to the frame. With a screwdriver, you can take off the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and verify the fit. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, Window Repair it's important to replace the seal as quickly as possible so that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.

UPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close your window and do an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corner of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial to take action if you wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature within your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or not present.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, old caulking may need to be removed. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.

It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily fixed by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or loose and blow open with ease it could be hinges at fault. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be done within a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process, but it's easier with someone else to help hold the frame in place.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or due to a poor installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are always happy to give suggestions.

Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great way to do this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window Repair easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different causes. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it could be required to realign them. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it is possible to give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.

The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through the gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping can help keep draughts at bay. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce the risk of draughts.

One of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be put on top of your windowsill. They can help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security for your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come a point where it is more economical to replace them than repair them. If you have any problems with your upvc window you should consult an expert as soon as you can.