Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they don't get rusty or decay.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will reduce repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is essential to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to keep your windows in good condition.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the old frame very easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove the old panes and put in new ones. In this case you'll need to locate some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.

It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your property until a professional comes out to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is large, you might want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, since it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. 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. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window to access the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and verify the an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws until they stay in the right place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may require replacing the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also loosen. Often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. You'll first need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to take action. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to control 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 done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how severe the problem is, the old caulking may have to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This can make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

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

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame if your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it blows open with the breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Like any mechanical part hinges will be damaged over time. It's very simple to change the hinges on a window but it's much simpler if you have someone to help you to hold the frame.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. You can do this by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should open.

The problem with the hinges on windows could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often solve the issue. We are more than happy to provide suggestions.

It is also important to grease the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this can cause an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. In addition, the interlock could be misaligned. This happens on the hinge's side, and might require to be cleaned. In certain instances it is possible to replace them.

These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window doctor near me with low-emissivity glass. which will help regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce the possibility of draughts.

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

With a little regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a life span and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than fix them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional immediately.