Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They do not decay or rust as aluminum or timber.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you're doing all you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. However when you have double pane windows that are anchored by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation you'll need source some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.

It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is significant, you may prefer a security screen that also includes a window. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues like sliding. A sagging window in uPVC can cause issues with light, Window repairs draughts and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sagging. To do this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having repositioned your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in the right position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, 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. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. The first step is to close the window and then perform a test to ensure that it fits. The joints at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and hinder your ability to control the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or window repairs missing sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up may need to be removed before a new layer is applied. It is essential to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed window, it is more likely the issue is more with the seal rather than the frame. A upvc window repair near me specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open with a breeze, it may be hinges at the fault. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier to do when you have a person to help you hold the frame in place.

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

Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a certain manner or because of inadequate installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great method to accomplish this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the risk of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different factors. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This causes an opening to appear between the sash and the frame. If they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them realigned. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it's possible to just give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to get them replaced.

The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window repairs near me seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and let air escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.

Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. They can help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window, it's best to consult a professional as soon as you can.