Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they do not corrosion or rot.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the old frame very easily. However when you have double pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to get rid of the existing panes and install new ones. In this case, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential for upvc window repair anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall on the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.

It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. This also serves as an obstacle to stop 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 is a long-lasting energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash window. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues like sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's crucial to act when you discover that your uPVC windows are falling down.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sliding. You'll first need to open the windows to get at the frame. With a screwdriver, you can take off the hinges on the top and bottom 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, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in the right place.

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

UPVC handles can also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose upvc window repairs near me handle. First, you'll need to close the window and perform a test to ensure that it fits. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial to take action if you awake each day to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the destruction of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. The most common cause for leaks in upvc window repair (click for info) windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is damaged or missing.

This is a simple fix that can be completed by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the issue is, old caulking may need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

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

Other indicators of long-term water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives under damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the home.

It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with the breeze. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they can wear down over time. It's very simple to change a window hinge but it's much easier if someone else helps you hold the frame.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused by opening the window incorrectly or by a poor installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo via our website and we will be happy to give you advice.

It is also essential to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is an ideal method of doing this. We suggest 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 prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by various factors. The hinges can also be disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause gaps between the frame and sash. They can be fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but if they are beyond repair it may be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, may also become misaligned, again it is feasible to give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to stop draughts. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce the possibility of draughts.

One of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with some sort of filler and can be positioned on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows eventually get worn out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc window, it's best to consult an expert immediately.