Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they do not corrosion or rot.

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

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the replacement will usually fit inside the old frame very easily. However when you have double pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this instance, you will need to find some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window doctor near me panes so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not on the floor and could be trampled under.

Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to stop water and drafts from entering the property until a professional comes out and repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the window doctor and the door is large, you might prefer a security screen that also has an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are falling down.

To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and check for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to lose their tightness. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also loosen. This is typically caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if you wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and impact your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or not present.

This is a simple fix that can be completed by any DIYer who has the ability. Based on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up may need to be removed before a fresh layer is applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them and that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are another sign of water leakage. This mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread across the home.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed window, it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal than the frame. Again this can easily be repaired by an 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 difficult to open, or slack and open in a breeze it could be hinges that are at the fault. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.

Like any mechanical component, hinges can be damaged over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier to do if you have someone to assist in holding the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper 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 the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to provide suggestions.

It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated on a regular basis. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by different factors. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This can cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. They can be repaired by giving them thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it may be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.

The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to stop draughts. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the possibility of draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some type of filler. They can be placed on top of your windowsill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it could be more cost-effective to replace them than to repair them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.