Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to rust or rot.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

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

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and will usually fit into the old frames very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

If you are going to try to remove the window panes yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.

Once the glass is removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from entering the property until a professional can come out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is substantial, you may need to consider an alarm system that has an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows to reach the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to hold them in the right position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can be caused by the handle mechanism wears out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and then perform an initial fitting. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then return the mechanism to its original its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. The leaks of water from windows do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or missing.

This is an easy fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might need to consider replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include 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 house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double glazing repair glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or loose and blow open with a breeze it could be the hinges that are at the fault. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be done within a few minutes.

Like any mechanical part hinges will be damaged over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process but it can be easier to do if you have someone to help hold the frame in place.

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

Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or due to poor installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photograph through our website and we will be happy to give you advice.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. 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 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window operate and close more easily. It can also reduce the possibility of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. The hinges can also be misaligned due to wear, which can cause a gap between the frame and sash. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it's possible to give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

The next most common reason for draughts is window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help stop draughts. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures and decrease draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder, these are typically made of fabric that are filled with some sort of filler and can be placed on the top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional immediately.