Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double glazing repairs-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance, you will need to find some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the window frame.

If you plan to attempt to remove the window panes by yourself it is important to wear the appropriate safety equipment that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and protective eyewear. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall on the fabric rather than on the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional comes out to repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap between the door and the window is significant, you may want to use a security screen that also has an opening. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues such as sliding. A sagging uPVC window could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's crucial to act fast to prevent the problem from getting worse.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows to get at the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws until they remain in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

uPVC handles may also loosen. Often, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close your window and do an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and window repairs mouldy walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and also hinder your ability to control the temperature of your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

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

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more severe situations, you may have to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window, it is more likely the issue is more related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix 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 slack and open with a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in just a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will be damaged over time. Changing a window repairs hinge is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier to do when you have a person to assist in holding the frame in place.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper 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 way or due to poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo through our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.

Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. 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. Regularly lubrication will help the window operate and close more easily. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different factors. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This causes gaps to develop between the sash and the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it may be feasible to give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.

The last way to reduce draughts effectively is by using a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!

Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it may be more cost-effective to simply replace them instead of fixing them. If you encounter any issues with your window made of upvc it is recommended to speak with a professional as soon as possible.