Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They do not rot or rust like timber and aluminum.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will reduce 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 even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. However, if 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 you'll need to locate some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

If you plan to attempt to remove the glass panes yourself, it is essential to wear appropriate safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and eye protection. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled.

It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your home until a professional is able to repair the window. It also acts as an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about a security door that has an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash window. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, uPVC repair draughts or even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from getting worse.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window which is sagging. To do this, you'll have to open the window to get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and test it for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to hold them in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to loosen. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is typically caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could also be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism to position.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to take action if you wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or not present.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any competent DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, the old caulking may have to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid 'over-caulking'. This will make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

Verify 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 extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window, it is more likely that the problem is with the seal than the frame. A upvc window repairs specialist can 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 difficult to open, or slack and blow open with ease It could be hinges that are at fault. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in a matter of minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will be damaged over time. It is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame in place.

Check that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the correct direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this shows which way the window should open.

Faulty window hinges could be caused by improperly opening the window a certain manner or because of improper installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often solve the issue. We are happy to offer advice.

It is also crucial to grease the hinges on a regular basis. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear may become displaced, which causes an opening to appear where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock may be misaligned. It is located on the hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the hinges.

The second most frequent reason for draughts is window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and let air escape through these gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to stop draughts. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce the possibility of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to cut down on drafts is to use an draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some kind of filler. They can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a little regular maintenance and repair, your upvc windows will provide excellent security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a lifespan and there may come an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.