Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They do not decay or rust as aluminum and timber.

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

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and may even be fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However, if you have double pane windows that are anchored by internal beading it will be more difficult to remove the existing panes and install 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 attempt to remove the window panes by yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and eye protection. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor and could be trampled.

Once the glass window repair has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional can come out and repair the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they are susceptible to a range of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from worsening.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window to access the frame. Then, using a screwdriver, you can take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and verify the fit. If you're happy with the fit, Repairs to uPVC Windows you can tighten the screws to ensure they stay in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes their tightness to decrease. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it could also be due to the handle mechanism wears out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to close your window and do an experiment fit. The corners of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen 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. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or not present.

This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid 'over-caulking'. This will make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are also signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. This can be easily corrected by an uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with a breeze. They can be repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and Repairs to uPVC Windows are usually completed in just a few minutes.

Like any mechanical component hinges will wear out over time. It's very simple to change the hinges on a window however it is simpler if you have someone to help you to hold the frame.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are being 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 be opened.

The issue can be caused by opening the window incorrectly or a faulty installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are always happy to give suggestions.

It is also essential to ensure that the hinges are lubricated on a regular basis. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it is possible to give them a clean but in some instances it could be necessary to have these replaced.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and lessen draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a little maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come a point where it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.