Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. They do not decay or rust as aluminum and timber.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will help avoid unnecessary 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 important to take the time to ensure that you're doing everything you can to keep your windows in good shape.

For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace them, and the replacement is usually able to fit into the frame of the previous one easily. If windows with double panes are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation, you will need to find some plastic spacers that assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you begin working on the glass so that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled upon 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 prevent drafts and water from entering the property until a professional can come out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders to gain access to your home. If the distance between the door and the window is large, you might want to use a security screen that also has a window. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

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

To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to reach the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, window take off the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as quickly as possible so that your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. Most often it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to shut the window and do a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if awake each day to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. The leaks of water from windows do can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is damaged or is missing.

This is an easy fix that can be completed by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may have to be removed. It is essential 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 can reduce the efficiency of your energy.

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 extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window repairs. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily fixed by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

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

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's very simple to change a window hinge, but it's simpler if you have someone to help you to hold the frame.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the correct direction. Look for the arrows 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 way or by poor installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photo on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.

It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. 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 sticking and prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different causes. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this can cause gaps to develop where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but if they are beyond repair it may be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it is feasible to give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to have these replaced.

The next common reason for draughts are the window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through these gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to stop draughts. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen the risk of draughts.

One of the most effective ways to cut down on draughts is by using an draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric filled with some type of filler. They can be placed on the windowsill on top. They can help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!

Your windows made of upvc will keep providing excellent insulation and security in your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a lifespan and they may reach a point where it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your Upvc window it is recommended to speak with an expert immediately.