Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they don't corrosion or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and 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 them, and the new window will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance you'll need locate some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the frame of the window.

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 drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled.

It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your property until a professional is able to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using a security door Upvc Repairs Near Me that has an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash window. In time, they could be affected by a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging uPVC windows can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from getting worse.

To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws until they remain in the right place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as quickly as possible so that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles could also become loose. This is typically 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 a loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close your window and do a test to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corner of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if you get up each morning to find a smoky wall and floors that are wet. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home, and impact your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. The most common reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is damaged or is missing.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking may need to be removed. It is crucial to remember that when it is about upvc Repairs near me window repairs you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the problem is with the seal rather than the frame. 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 open in a breeze, it may be hinges at the fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix these in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung upvc repair windows that use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they will wear out over time. It's easy to change a window hinge however it is easier if someone else helps you to hold the frame.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the correct direction. This can be done by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should open.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to offer assistance.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by different things. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, causing an opening between the frame and sash. These can be easily repaired by giving them a good clean, but if they are beyond repair it may be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be disaligned. This happens on the hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In some cases it might be necessary to replace them.

The next most common reason for draughts are the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through the gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of 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.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repair, your upvc windows will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it may be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc window it is recommended to speak with an expert as soon as possible.