Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they do not rust or rot.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need locate some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall on the fabric and not on the floor timber and could be trampled.

After the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is substantial, you may prefer an alarm system that includes windows. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, timber durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. Over time, they can develop a number of problems that include sliding. A sagging uPVC windows could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you notice your uPVC windows are sagging.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sliding. To do this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, remove both the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after having moved your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws until they remain in the right place.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as fast as possible so that your uPVC windows repairs are watertight and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles could also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it can be due to the handle mechanism wears out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. The first step is to close the window and perform an initial test to ensure that it fits. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial 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 impact your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any DIY expert. Depending on the severity of the problem the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer can be applied. It is important to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.

It is also important to note that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. Again this can easily be repaired by a uPVC window specialist 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 it opens in an ease. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix hinges in just a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is an easy procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame in place.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the right direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should open.

The issue can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or due to a poor installation in the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are always happy to offer assistance.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to operate and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 or 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 various factors. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, causing an opening between the frame and sash. These 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 may be disaligned. This happens on the hinge's side and could require to be cleaned. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.

The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the possibility of draughts.

The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be hung over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will provide excellent security and insulation 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 cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. So, if you're experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.