Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they don't rust or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

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

Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. However If windows with double panes are anchored by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to remove the old panes and put in new ones. In this instance you'll need find some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass, so that any shards fall on the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.

Once the glass is removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to stop drafts and water from entering the home until a professional can come out and Window Repairs fix the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is large, you might need to consider security screens that has windows. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sagging. A sagging uPVC windows can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.

To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can reach the frame. Then, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, shut your window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in the right place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as possible so that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's relatively easy to repair a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window repairs near me and do an initial fitting. The joint at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to act if you awake each day to find a smoky wall and wet floors. Water leaks from windows can not only cause destruction of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously may need to be removed before a new layer of caulk is applied. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and 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.

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

It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily corrected 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 are loose and blow open with ease it could be hinges that are at fault. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually completed in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung upvc door repairs near me windows that have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It is an easy process but it can be easier with someone else to help you hold the frame up.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the correct direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.

The problem with the hinges on windows could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are happy to provide advice.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. The ideal time to do this once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by different things. The hinges may also become misaligned due to wear, creating a gap where the sash meets frame. If they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can also become misaligned, again it may be possible to just give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to get them replaced.

The next common reason for draughts are the window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time, and let air escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.

Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. It is important to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it could be cheaper to replace them than to repair them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window you should consult an expert immediately.