Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They do not rot or rust like aluminum and timber.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into frames of the past easily. However, if windows with double panes are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to remove the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation, you will need to find some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled.

Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the property until a professional is able to come out and repair the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might be interested in a security door that has an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues that include sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from getting worse.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window to get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close the window and verify the fit. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they remain in place.

If you can't reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out and cause their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as possible so that your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and then perform a test fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial to take action if you awake each day to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaking upvc window repairs windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or missing.

This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a new layer of caulk can be put on. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.

It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are free 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 indicators of long-term water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window, it is more likely the problem is with the seal than the frame. It is also possible to be corrected by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and open in a breeze it could be the hinges that are at the fault. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually completed in just a few minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges 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 if you have someone to assist in holding the frame up.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused either by opening the window repairs near me incorrectly or due to a poor installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo on our website. We will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window operate and close more smoothly. It can also reduce the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. The ideal time to do this once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. The hinges may also become disaligned as a result of wear, causing an opening where the sash and frame meet. This can be easily repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be unbalanced. It is located on the hinge side and may need to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the hinges.

The seals may wear out or be damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce draughts.

One of the most effective ways to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be placed on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little regular maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a lifespan and they may reach an point at which it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your Upvc window, it's best to consult an expert as soon as you can.