Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, which can make it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you're doing everything you can to keep your windows in good repair.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple 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 held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to get rid of the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this instance, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed and the glass is removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the property until a professional can come out and fix the window. This also serves as a barrier to prevent any intruders from getting into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is large, you might prefer an alarm system that includes an opening. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of issues like sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you find that your upvc window repair near me window is beginning to lose its shape, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from worsening.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can reach the frame. Then, remove both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window repair near me to test the fit after you have repositioned your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as possible so that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles can also become loose. Most often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and do an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. The leaks of water from windows do are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer is applied. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk and then make the area more difficult to clean and 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 in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are another sign of water leakage. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to note that if the leak is coming from between the glass of 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 fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or loose and open with ease It could be hinges that are at 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 use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's very simple to replace a hinge on a window however it is simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame.

Check that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the proper direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This shows which way the window should open.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain way or due to improper installation in the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are always happy to offer suggestions.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a good way to do 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 decrease the chance of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC Window repair.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by different things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This will cause an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock may be misaligned. This is located on the hinge side and could require to be cleaned. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.

The seals may wear out or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and lessen draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!

With a little regular maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will continue to provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come a point where it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult an expert as soon as you can.