Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, which can make it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they typically fit into old frames very easily. If windows with double panes are joined by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this case, you will need to source some plastic spacers that aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor and could be trampled.

It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the distance between the window and the door is substantial, you may want to use an alarm system that includes windows. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of problems including sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are falling down.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can access the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges at the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close the window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window repairs, you can tighten screws to hold them in place.

If you can't reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

uPVC handles could also loosen. This is typically caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close the window and perform a test fit. The joint at the corner of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to act if you get up each morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may have to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes have no debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.

It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. It is also possible to be repaired by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and open with ease it could be hinges that are at fault. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Like any mechanical component hinges are prone to wear out over time. It is essentially a simple process, but it's simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame in place.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window repair in a certain manner or because of improper installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photo through our website and we will be happy to give you advice.

Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of various factors. First, the hinges due to wear and tear may become displaced, which will cause a gap to form between the sash and the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it could be required to realign them. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window and can also become misaligned, again it may be feasible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may 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 let air escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures and lessen the possibility of draughts.

One of the most effective ways to reduce drafts is to use an draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with some type of filler. They can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. These will help to block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a life span and they may reach an point at which it is more economical to replace them than repair them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc it is recommended to speak with a professional immediately.