Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to rust or rot.

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

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and double glazing even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, uPVC repairs it will be more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance you'll need to source some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.

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 property until a professional can come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is significant, you may want to use an alarm system that includes a window. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of problems including sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sliding. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to reach the frame. With an screwdriver, take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having repositioned your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to keep them in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading 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 may also become loose. Often it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it could also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and then perform a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism to position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. Water leaks from windows can not only cause destruction of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or not present.

This is an easy fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the problem the old caulking may require removal before a new layer of caulk can be put on. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, do avoid the temptation to "over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes are free of debris in them and ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives under conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.

If the leakage is occurring between the double glazing-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens with the breeze. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be done within a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they can wear down over time. It is very easy to change the hinges on a window but it's much easier if someone helps hold the frame.

Verify that the upvc window repairs hinges are closed and open in the proper direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine the direction in which 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 a photo through our website can often resolve the problem. We are more than happy to provide assistance.

It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window open and close more easily. It can also reduce the possibility of a window sticking and help prevent corrosion. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different causes. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear may become displaced, which can cause gaps to develop where the sash meets the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. In addition, the interlock could also become unbalanced. It is located on the hinge's side, and might require to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace these.

The next most common reason for draughts is window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through the gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Another option is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce the possibility of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective methods to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes that are filled with some kind of filler. They can be positioned on top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to realize that all windows have a life span and there may come the point when it's more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc you should consult a professional as soon as you can.