Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum or timber.

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

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, which can make it very hazardous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the old frame very easily. However, if you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case you'll need to find some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass 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 and not onto the floor and could be trampled under.

After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the home until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window which is sagging. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to get at the frame. Then, remove both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fitting. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws until they stay in the right place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes them to lose tightness. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.

UPVC handles can also become loose. Most often this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to repair a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and perform a test fitting. The joint at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it does not, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then turn the mechanism to position.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and affect your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or not present.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Based on the severity of the problem the old caulking might need to be removed before a new layer is applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This can make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris in them and that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more severe situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include 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 house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the problem is with the seal rather than the frame. 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 stiff to open, or are loose and open with a breeze it could be hinges that are at fault. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be done within a few minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. It is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier to do when you have a person to help hold the frame up.

Verify that the upvc repairs near me hinges are open and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

The issue could be caused by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a picture via our website and we will be pleased to offer you advice.

It is also crucial to grease the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method of doing 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 stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they could 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 can become misaligned, this will cause a gap to form between the sash and the frame. They can be fixed by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it may be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. Second, the interlock can be disaligned. This is located on the hinge side and may need to be cleaned. In some cases it is possible to replace them.

The next most common reason for draughts are the window seals. These can become worn down or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce the possibility of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes that are filled with some sort of filler and can be placed on the top of your windowsill. They can 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 security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach a point where it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc you should consult a professional as soon as you can.