Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will reduce costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However when windows with double panes are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to remove the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation you'll need to source some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the window frame.

If you're planning to try to remove the window panes by yourself, it is essential to wear appropriate safety gear, including thick gloves and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor and could be trampled.

It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your property until a professional is able to repair the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they are susceptible to a range of problems including sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's important to take action immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are falling down.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows so you can access the frame. Then, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after having relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to secure them in the right position.

If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your upvc repairs near me window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also loosen up. Often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. Fortunately, uPVC repair it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close the window and perform an experiment fit. The joint at the corner of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and also affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is damaged or not present.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a fresh layer is applied. 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 important to check that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage are decayed 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 occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the problem is related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or are loose and open with a breeze it could be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in just a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will be damaged over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process but it can be easier when you have a person to help you hold the frame up.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. You can do this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should open.

The issue could be caused by opening the window improperly or a faulty installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are always happy to provide suggestions.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils should not be used as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different things. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, causing an opening where the sash and frame meet. They can be repaired by giving them thorough clean, however when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window replacement, can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to just give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.

These seals can wear down or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will reduce draughts.

Another method of reducing drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

The windows made of upvc can remain a great source of insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is essential to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it may be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you're experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.