Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows could cause serious damage to your home, and could even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and generally fit into old frames very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled.

It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional arrives to fix the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the distance between the window and the door is large, you might want to use an alarm system that includes a window. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by 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 shrink, it is important to act swiftly to prevent the problem from worsening.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll need open the window to get to the frame. Then, remove both the hinges at the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, tighten the screws to hold them in place.

If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close your window and do an experiment to ensure that it fits. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism to position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

It is important to check that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to drain away from the pvc window repairs. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is with the seal than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or loose and blow open in a breeze it could be hinges that are at the fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either 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 an easy procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should open.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or by inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are always happy to offer assistance.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges, also due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this will cause an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. If they are beyond lock repair, it may be necessary to get them re-aligned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it is possible to give them a clean but in some instances it could be necessary to have these replaced.

The next common reason for draughts are the window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through the gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of repairing upvc doors with low-emissivity glasses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the possibility of draughts.

The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be hung over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair double glazed window them. If you are experiencing issues with your upvc window it is recommended to speak with a professional as soon as possible.