Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they don't rust or rot.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and may even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace windows, and the new one will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. However If you have double glazing pane windows that are anchored by internal beading it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this instance, you will need to find some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric and not onto the floor and could be trampled under.

It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional comes out to fix the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may want to consider using the security door with an integrated window, since it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. In time, they could develop a variety of issues that include sliding. A sagging uPVC windows could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you discover that your uPVC windows are sliding.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sliding. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can reach the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, shut your window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to secure them in place.

If you aren't able to move the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles may also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and then perform an initial fitting. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Water leaks through windows can 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 a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any DIY expert. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This can make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.

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

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault if your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in a breeze. They can be replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually completed in just a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process, but it's easier to do with someone else to help you hold the frame up.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.

The problem with the hinges on windows could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular manner or because of improper installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to give assistance.

It is also important to grease the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good way to do this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window replacement to operate and close more easily. It can also reduce the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, causing gaps where the sash and frame meet. This can be easily 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. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window and can also become misaligned, again it is possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

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

The final method to cut down on draughts effectively is by using a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be put on top of your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach a point where it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult a professional immediately.