Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance it is essential to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

Once the glass is removed and the glass is removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

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

To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning 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 take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in the right place.

If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it can also be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and do a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if get up each morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on how serious 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 will make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them and that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing 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. This fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double glazing repair-glazed window, it is more likely the issue is related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in a breeze. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process, but it's simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame up.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should open.

The issue can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or due to a poor installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photograph through our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.

It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the risk of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges may also become unbalanced due to wear, creating gaps where the sash and frame meet. This can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. The interlock may also become disaligned. It is located on the hinge's side and could require to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.

These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.

Another, and most effective methods to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric filled with some type of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. They can help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a little regular maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it may be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional immediately.