Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames that were previously in use very easily. However when windows with double panes are secured by internal beading it will be more difficult to get rid of the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation you'll need to locate some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.

If you are going to try to remove the glass panes yourself it is important to wear the proper safety gear, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. 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 on the floor, where they could be trampled.

It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. This also serves as an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is large, you might need to consider an alarm system that has a window. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a number of problems such as sagging. A sagging window in uPVC can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act immediately if you discover that your uPVC windows are falling down.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sliding. You'll first need to open the windows so you can reach the frame. With an screwdriver, unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in the right place.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loose their elasticity. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

uPVC handles could also loosen. This is typically caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the handle mechanism wears out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close the window and then perform an initial test to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and doors mouldy walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or missing.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This can make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more severe instances, you may need to replace the window.

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

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

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens with a breeze. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually completed 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 all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process but it can be easier to do if you have someone to help hold the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and doors closed in the correct direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.

Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular manner or because of inadequate installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photo via our website and we will be happy to give you advice.

Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We recommend 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 reduce the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a few different things. First, the hinges due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This will cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it may be possible to give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Installing high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to stop draughts. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen the risk of draughts.

One of the most effective ways to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some kind of filler. They can be placed on the windowsill on top. They will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as you can.