Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the replacement will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. However when windows with double panes are anchored by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

If you plan to attempt to remove the glass panes yourself it is important to wear appropriate safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and protective eyewear. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled.

Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from entering the property until a professional is able to come out and repair the window. This also serves as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a number of problems, including sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's important to take action as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are sagging.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, tighten the screws to hold them in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.

uPVC handles can also loosen up. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and perform an initial fitting. The corners of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Windows that leak water do 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 a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may need to be removed before a new layer is applied. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes have no debris inside them and that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window repair. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the problem is with the seal than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open with a breeze It could be the hinges that are at fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix these in a matter of minutes.

Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they can wear down over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window but it's much easier if someone helps you hold the frame.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the correct direction. This can be done by looking for the arrow on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should open.

The issue can be caused by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation in the factory. Sending us a photo through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light 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. Regular lubrication can help the window to open and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This should be done at least every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this causes an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. They can be repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it may be possible to just give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to have these replaced.

These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and will reduce the possibility of draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes filled with some type of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

Your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security in your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to recognize that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc window it is recommended to speak with a professional as soon as you can.