Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like aluminum or timber.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

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

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one is usually able to fit into the frame of the previous one easily. If windows with double panes are joined by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

If you're planning to try to remove the glass panes yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.

Once the glass is removed and the glass is removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the home until a professional can come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you might be interested in the security door with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from getting worse.

To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. With a screwdriver, you can remove 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 repositioned your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they stay in the right place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, Window repair causing them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also loosen. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close your window and do a test to ensure that it fits. The corners of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to take action if get up each morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. Most of the time, uPVC Window Repair leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris inside them and that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the home.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is related to the seal, not the frame. It is also possible to be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it opens in a breeze. These are easily repaired by any skilled 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 all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's very simple to change a window hinge, but it's easier if someone else helps hold the frame.

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

The issue could be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or by a poor installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be pleased to offer you advice.

It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window operate and close more smoothly. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by various factors. The hinges can also become misaligned due to wear, which can cause gaps between the frame and sash. They can be repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. The interlock may be disaligned. This happens on the hinge side and could require to be cleaned. In some cases it is possible to replace these.

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 option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce the risk of draughts.

One of the most effective ways to cut down on drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes filled with some sort of filler and can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. They will help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually get worn out and it could be cheaper to replace them than to repair them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.