Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. They do not get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good condition.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the replacement is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to get rid of the old panes and put in new ones. In this case, you will need to find some plastic spacers that aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor and could be trampled.

Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from entering the property until a professional comes out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might think about the security door with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues such as sliding. A sagging window can cause problems with light, UPVC window repairs draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are sagging.

To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to secure them in place.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes them to lose tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your upvc window repairs near me windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

uPVC handles could also loosen. The majority of the time it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. The first step is to close your window and uPVC window repairs do an initial test fit. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if awake each day to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

It is a fairly easy fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Check that any drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or are loose and blow open with ease it could be hinges at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier to do if you have someone to assist in holding the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

The issue could be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or due to a poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photograph through our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.

It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges regularly. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different causes. The hinges can also be misaligned due to wear, causing an opening where the sash meets frame. They can be fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but in the event that they are beyond repair it may be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. Second, the interlock can be disaligned. It is located on the hinge side and might require to be cleaned. In certain instances it is possible to replace these.

The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help control indoor temperatures and decrease the possibility of draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to cut down on drafts is to use a draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be placed on the windowsill on top. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows eventually get worn out and it may be more cost-effective to simply replace them than to repair them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it's best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.