Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they are not susceptible to rust or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the replacement will generally fit within the frame that was previously installed easily. However when windows with double panes are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation you'll need to locate some plastic spacers that assist the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.

If you're planning attempt to remove the window panes yourself it is crucial to wear the proper safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and protective eyewear. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall onto the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a great idea tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will stop water and drafts from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is substantial, you may want to use an alarm system that has an opening. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging uPVC windows can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action immediately if you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sagging. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they stay in position.

If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, causing them to loosen. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles could also loosen. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to shut the window and then perform a test fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash should 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 turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to take action if wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and hinder your ability to control the temperature of your home. Most of the time, upvc repairs window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to note that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem 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 loose and open with ease, it may be hinges that are at the fault. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. It is essentially a simple procedure, but it is simpler with someone else to help hold the frame in place.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the correct direction. You can check this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This should be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage 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 can cause gaps to develop between the sash and the frame. They can be repaired by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be misaligned. This is located on the hinge's side and could require to be cleaned. In certain instances it is possible to replace them.

The second most frequent reason for draughts is window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and let air escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.

The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. These will help to block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

With a little regular maintenance and repair, your upvc repair windows will provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than repair them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window it is recommended to speak with a professional as soon as possible.