Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will reduce repair costs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows could cause serious damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the replacement will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. If windows with double glazed window repairs near me panes are held together by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth prior Window Repairs to when you start working on the glass, so that any fragments of glass fall onto the cloth rather than on the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the property until a professional comes out and repair the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, they can develop a number of problems such as sagging. A sagging uPVC windows could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action when you discover that your upvc window repairs windows are falling down.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can access the frame. With an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and test it for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to keep them in place.

If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. 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 up. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism wears out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close the window and then perform a test fit. The joint at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

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

This is a simple fix that can be completed by any DIYer who has the ability. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up may need to be removed before a fresh layer is applied. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the home.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC 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 difficult to open, or are loose and blow open in a breeze, it may be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be replaced by any competent DIYer and can be done within a few minutes.

Like any mechanical part hinges are prone to wear out over time. It's very simple to replace a hinge on a window but it's much easier if someone helps you to hold the frame.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the proper direction. You can check this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photograph through our website and we will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

It is also essential to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the chance of windows sticking and help prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a 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 variety of different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it is possible to give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.

The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and let air escape through the gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce draughts.

Another, and most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using an draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a type of filler. They can be positioned on top of your windowsill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually become worn out, and it is cheaper to replace them than to repair them. So, if you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance immediately.