Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They do not get rotten or rusty like timber and aluminum.

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

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is essential to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they typically fit into old frames very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need to source some plastic spacers that aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards will fall onto the fabric instead of onto the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your home until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is significant, you may want to use security screens that has an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from getting worse.

To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges at the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they stay in place.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are watertight and secure from draughts.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose upvc repairs hand. First, you'll need close your window and do an experiment to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Windows that leak water do are not just a cause for destruction of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window doctor near me leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be completed by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. It is essential to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace the window.

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

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely the problem is with the seal than the frame. Again this can easily be fixed by an uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or are loose and open with ease it could be hinges at fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be done within a few minutes.

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

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

The issue could be caused either by opening the window improperly or a faulty installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to give advice.

It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We suggest using an oil 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 reduce the risk of sticking. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different causes. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This can cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily fixed by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could also become disaligned. This is located on the hinge's side and could require to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace them.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen draughts.

Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time 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 upvc window, it's best to consult a professional immediately.