Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will save you from costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is crucial to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good repair.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However, if you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to remove the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation you'll need find some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor and could be trampled under.

Once the glass is removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from getting into the property until a professional comes out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is significant, you may want to use an alarm system that includes an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and upvc Window repairs doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could be affected by a variety of issues such as sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It is crucial to act as soon as you notice your uPVC windows are falling down.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window which is sliding. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to reach the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and test it for fit. If you are happy with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to secure them in the right position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as fast as possible so that your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. Often this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it could also happen because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains it's important to take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how severe the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is essential to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly 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's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. This can be easily fixed by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or are loose and open in a breeze It could be the hinges that are at the fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier when you have a person to help you hold the frame in place.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the correct direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge, this shows which way the window should open.

The problem can be caused by opening the window improperly or a faulty installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are happy to provide assistance.

Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more smoothly. It can also prevent corrosion and upvc window repairs decrease the chance of sticking. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window repairs.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by different things. The hinges can also become misaligned due to wear, which can cause an opening where the sash and frame meet. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but if they are beyond repair it may be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock may be misaligned. This is located on the hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In certain instances it is possible to replace these.

The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.

The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually 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!

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to realize that all windows have a lifespan and there may come a point where it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc window, it's best to consult a professional as soon as possible.