Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is important to ensure 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. However If windows with double panes are anchored by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the old panes and put in new ones. In this case, you will need to locate some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass to ensure that any shards fall onto the cloth rather than on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging window in uPVC could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from worsening.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, remove both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver, and then adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close your window and test it for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in the right place.

If you can't reposition the hinges you may require replacing the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out and cause them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. Often, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need close your window and do a test to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to act if you get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature in your home. The most common reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or not present.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking may have to be removed. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Check that any drainage holes have no debris inside them and that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more severe instances, you may need to replace the window.

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

If the leakage is occurring between the double glazing-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is more related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens with a breeze. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.

Like any mechanical component, hinges can be damaged over time. It is essentially a very simple process but it can be simpler with someone else to help hold the frame in place.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.

window replacement near me hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain way or by inadequate installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo on our website. We will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a variety of various factors. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, which can cause an opening where the sash and frame meet. This can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it's possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

The next common reason for draughts is window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping can help keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and lessen the possibility of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder, these are typically made of fabric filled with some kind of filler. They can be positioned on the windowsill on top. They can help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a little maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your upvc window you should consult an expert as soon as possible.