Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't get rusty or decay.

It is important to clean and oil upvc repairs doors and windows regularly. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good working order.

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. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation you'll need to find some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the property until a professional can come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is substantial, you may prefer an alarm system that has an opening. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. Over time, they can develop a variety of issues such as sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from becoming worse.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows to reach the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after having relocated your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they remain in place.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and Upvc repair dry out, which causes them to lose tightness. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. Most often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it does not then you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, turn the mechanism into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if you awake each day to find a smoky wall and floors that are wet. The leaks of water from windows do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives under damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leak originates from the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason if your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in a breeze. Any competent DIYer can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will be damaged over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process but it can be simpler with someone else to help you hold the frame in place.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should open.

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

Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by different factors. The hinges can also be misaligned due to wear, causing a gap where the sash and frame meet. If they are damaged beyond repair, it may be required to realign them. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it's feasible to give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.

The next common 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. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to stop draughts. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be put on top of your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

Your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security in your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it is cheaper to replace them rather than repair them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.