Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will generally fit within the frame that was previously installed easily. However If windows with double panes are anchored by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation you'll need to locate some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall on the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trampled on and cause further damage.

Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to stop water and drafts from entering the property until a professional comes out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap between the door and the window is significant, you may prefer a security screen that also includes an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash window repair. As time passes, they may develop a number of problems that include sliding. A sagging window in uPVC could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from worsening.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to get at the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can 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 test it for fitting. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause them to loosen. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles could also loosen. This is typically caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is damaged or is missing.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may have to be removed. It is important to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and can reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need 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. This fungus thrives under damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely the issue is more with the seal rather than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue 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 loose and open with ease it could be the hinges that are at the fault. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be completed in just a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they can wear down over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is simpler when you have a person to help you hold the frame in place.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.

The issue could be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or a faulty installation at the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often resolve the problem. We are always happy to give assistance.

Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. 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 will help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also lower the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, which can cause an opening where the sash meets frame. They can be fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, can also become misaligned, again it may be possible to just give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.

The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and let air escape through the gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be placed over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

Your windows made of upvc will keep providing excellent insulation and security in your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them than to repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.