Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. 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 could 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 is usually able to fit into the old frame very easily. However when you have double pane windows that are anchored by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to take out the old panes and window Repair put in new ones. In this instance, you will need to source some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. You should also 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.

After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to stop drafts and water from entering the home until a professional is able to come out and repair the Window Repair. This will also act as a barrier, window repair deterring any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is large, you might prefer an alarm system that has windows. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a variety of issues that include sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver and 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, you can tighten the screws until they remain in the right place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as fast as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close the window and perform a test fit. The corners of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Windows that leak water do can not only cause destruction of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is damaged or missing.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and could decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might need to consider replacing the window.

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

It is also important to remember that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. Again this can easily be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with the breeze. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually completed in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. It is very easy to replace a hinge on a window, but it's simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame.

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

The problem with the hinges on windows could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain manner or because of inadequate installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be happy to give you 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 an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. First, the hinges due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. If they are beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it's feasible to give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals. These can become worn down or damaged over time, and let air escape through these gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping can help stop draughts. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures, and also lessen draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to recognise that all windows have a life span and there may come the point when it's more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window, it's best to consult a professional as soon as you can.