Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they don't corrosion or rot.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they generally fit into frames of the past easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this case, you will need to find some plastic spacers that aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the window frame.

If you're planning to try to remove the glass panes yourself, it is essential to wear the proper safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material 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, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.

It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your property until a professional is able to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap is large, you might want to consider using the security door with an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of problems including sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window to get to the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to secure them in the right position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles could also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. The first step is to close the window and then perform a test to ensure that it fits. The corners of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to wet floors and damp 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 impact your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most of the time, uPVC window repairs near me leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may require removal before a new layer can be put on. It is important 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 reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also that the sill pan is properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.

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

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

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or are loose and blow open in a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix these in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier when you have a person to assist in holding the frame up.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the right direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused either due to opening the Window Repair Near Me in the wrong way or a faulty installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.

It is also important to grease the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a good method of doing this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the possibility of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils should not be used since they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This causes a gap to form between the sash and the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them realigned. In addition, the interlock could also become disaligned. This happens on the hinge's side and might require to be cleaned. In some cases it is possible to replace the hinges.

The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, window repair Near me and let air escape through these gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and will reduce draughts.

Another method of reducing 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. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a little maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and there may come a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. So, if you're experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.