Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a great choice for repaired modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. They don't get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly 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. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance, you will need to source some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor, where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from entering the home until a professional is able to come out and repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about the security door with an integrated window, since 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 windows made of sash. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues such as sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.

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

If you are unable to 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 soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it can also be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to shut the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

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

This is a simple fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the issue is, old caulking may have to be removed. It is crucial to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris in them and that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the home.

It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A upvc repair specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and blow open with a breeze It could be the hinges that are at fault. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be done within a few minutes.

Like any mechanical component, hinges can be damaged over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame in place.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. This can be done by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused either by opening the window improperly or due to a poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give assistance.

It is also crucial to grease 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. Regular lubrication can help the window to operate and close more easily. It also decreases the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by different things. The hinges may also become misaligned due to wear, which can cause a gap between the frame and sash. This can be easily repaired by giving them thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be misaligned. It is located on the hinge's side and might require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace these.

The next most common reason for draughts are the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through the gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.

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

With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach a point where it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window, it's best to consult an expert as soon as you can.