Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double pane windows that are anchored by internal beading it will be more difficult to remove the old panes and put in new ones. In this case you'll need find some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled.

It's a good idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional comes out to repair the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access 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 offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

upvc window Repair is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, Upvc window Repair they can develop a number of problems that include sagging. A sagging uPVC window could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It is crucial to act when you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window glass repair near me that is sagging. You'll first need to open the windows to get at the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in the right place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you could need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to lose tightness. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

uPVC handles could also loosen. Most often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to repair the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close your window and do an experiment fit. The joint at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it is important that you take action. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be completed by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking may have to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris in them and that the sill pan is properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious situations, you might need to consider replacing the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. The mold thrives in damp environments and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or are loose and blow open in a breeze, it may be hinges at fault. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple process, but it's simpler if you have someone to help you hold the frame in place.

Check that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the correct direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.

Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to offer advice.

Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great way to do this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the possibility of a window sticking and help prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different factors. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear may become displaced, which causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. They can be repaired by giving them good cleaning, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. The interlock may also become unbalanced. This happens on the hinge's side, and may need to be cleaned. In some instances it is possible to replace them.

The next common reason for draughts are the window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help stop draughts. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with some sort of filler and can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually get worn out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them than to repair them. So, if you're experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.