Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they do not get rusty or decay.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will reduce 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. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to remove the old panes and put in new ones. In this instance it is essential to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes to ensure 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 cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the home until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is large, you may think about a security door that has an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it is important to act swiftly to prevent the problem from becoming worse.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need open the window to access the frame. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to keep them in the right position.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out and cause them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also loosen. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it could also be caused by the handle mechanism wears out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window repairs and perform a test fitting. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to take action. Windows that leak water do are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature inside 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 competent DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer can be put on. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Check that any drainage holes are free of debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace 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 mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread across the home.

If the leakage occurs between the double glazing repairs near me-glazed glass it is more likely the issue is more with the seal rather than 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 if it opens with an ease. Any competent DIYer can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window but it's much easier if someone else helps hold the frame.

Check that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.

The issue could be caused either by opening the window improperly or a faulty installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a picture through our website and we will be pleased to offer you 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. Regular lubrication can allow the window operate and close more easily. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by different factors. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear may become displaced, which causes gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it is possible to give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.

The next common reason for draughts is window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security for your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window, it's best to consult a professional as soon as you can.