Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and UPVC Window Repairs increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and will usually fit into the old frames very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need source some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might be interested in a security door that has an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues that include sagging. A sagging uPVC window could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it is important to act swiftly to prevent the problem from worsening.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sliding. You'll first need to open the windows to get at the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to keep them in place.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes their tightness to decrease. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles could also become loose. Most often, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and UPVC window repairs do an experiment fitting. The joint at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then return the mechanism to its original its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for destruction of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up may require removal before a fresh layer can be applied. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, do avoid the temptation to "over-caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and could decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more severe instances, you may need to replace 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. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the home.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window repairs, it is more likely that the issue is with the seal rather than the frame. This can be easily corrected by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or loose and blow open with a breeze it could be hinges at fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix hinges in just a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts, hinges can wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier to do with someone else to help you hold the frame in place.

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

Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are always happy to provide advice.

It is also important to lubricate 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 lower the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This can cause a gap to form where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it's possible to give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help stop draughts. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen the risk of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some sort of filler and can be placed on top of your windowsill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!

With a little maintenance and repair, your upvc windows will continue to provide excellent security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows eventually become worn out, and it is more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your upvc window repairs windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.