Repairs to uPVC Windows

upvc window repair windows are a great option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to get rusty or decay.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace windows, and the new one will generally fit within the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation you'll need to source some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

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

It's a great idea tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your property until a professional comes out to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is significant, you may need to consider a security screen that also includes windows. This will provide 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. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sagging. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can access the frame. Then, remove both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and test it for fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws until they remain in position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and secure from draughts.

UPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to shut the window and do an initial fitting. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism to position.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial to take action if you get up each morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This can make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the home.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely the problem is related to the seal, not the frame. Again this can easily be corrected by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open in a breeze it could be the hinges that are at fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix these in a matter of minutes.

Like any mechanical part, hinges can be damaged over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process, but it's easier if you have someone to assist in holding the frame in place.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the correct direction. You can check this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should open.

The problem with the hinges on windows could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a certain way or due to improper installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are happy to provide assistance.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the possibility of a window sticking and help prevent corrosion. Ideally, you should do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a variety of various factors. The hinges may also become misaligned due to wear, creating gaps where the sash meets frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it may be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be misaligned. It is located on the hinge's side and might require to be cleaned. In some instances it is possible to replace them.

The seals may wear out or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.

The final method to cut down on draughts effectively is by using a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. They can help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!

With a little regular maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come the point when it's more economical to replace them than repair them. If you encounter any issues with your window made of upvc you should consult an expert as soon as you can.