Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

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

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

If you are going to attempt to remove the window panes by yourself it is crucial to wear appropriate safety gear, including thick gloves and eye protection. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.

Once the glass is removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to stop water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional can come out and Repairs to uPVC Windows repair the window repair.. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap between the door and the window is substantial, you may need to consider security screens that has an opening. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time, they can suffer from a variety of issues, including sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It is crucial to act as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are falling down.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need open the window to access the frame. Then, remove both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and test it for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in place.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles may also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it could also be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to shut the window and then perform an initial fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it's crucial to take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Depending on how severe the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to be careful not to over-caulk. This can make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes do not have 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 instances, you might have to consider replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix 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 open with a breeze It could be hinges at fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame in place.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the correct direction. This can be done by looking for the arrows 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 in a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give suggestions.

It is also crucial to grease the hinges regularly. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. Ideally, you should do this once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a few different things. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, creating an opening where the sash and frame meet. They can be repaired by giving them thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it's possible to just give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to have these replaced.

The next most common reason for draughts are the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and lessen the risk of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be positioned on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them than to repair them. So, if you're experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional immediately.