Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into frames of the past easily. However If you have double pane windows that are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to get rid of the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.

It's a great idea to 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 fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is significant, uPVC repair you may need to consider a security screen that also includes windows. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. Over time, they can develop a variety of issues such as sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It is crucial to act when you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and test it for fit. If you are happy with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to secure them in place.

If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as fast as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it could also happen because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to shut the window and do an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home, and affect your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any DIY expert. Depending on how severe the issue is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to keep in mind 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. This can be easily corrected by an uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or are loose and blow open in a breeze, it may be the hinges that are at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. It is very easy to replace a hinge on a window but it's much easier if someone else helps hold the frame.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window doctor should be opened.

Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture through our website can often resolve the problem. We are happy to give advice.

It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different factors. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which will cause an opening to appear between the sash and the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it could be required to realign them. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it's feasible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.

The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen the risk of draughts.

The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

The windows made of upvc can remain a great source of insulation and security for your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.