Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like timber and aluminum.

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

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good working order.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they generally fit into frames of the past easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance you'll need to locate some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.

If you plan to try to remove the window panes by yourself it is important to wear the proper safety gear such as gloves that are thick and protective eyewear. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you begin working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall onto the cloth rather than on the floor where they could be trodden under 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 is able to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the distance between the door and the window doctor is substantial, you may need to consider security screens that includes a window. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sliding. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's crucial to act fast to prevent the problem from becoming worse.

To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window to access the frame. Then, remove both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window replacement to test the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, tighten the screws to secure them in the right position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to lose their tightness. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also loosen. 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 worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. The first step is to close the window and perform an initial test fit. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to act 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 inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

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

Check that any drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.

It is also important to note that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. It is also possible to be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and open with a breeze It could be hinges that are at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. It is very easy to change a window hinge, but it's simpler if you have someone to help you hold the frame.

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

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a picture on our website. We will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great method of doing this. We suggest using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this can cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. They can be repaired by giving them good clean, but if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, can also become misaligned, again it may be feasible to give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through the gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. which will help regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be placed over your window sill. They will help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

The windows made of upvc can remain a great source of insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually get worn out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them than to repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult a professional immediately.