repairs to upvc windows (Full Article)

uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they don't get rusty or decay.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will reduce repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

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

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance you'll need to source some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.

It's a good idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional is able to repair double glazed window the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is large, you may think about a security door that has an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues that include sagging. A sagging window in uPVC could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from getting worse.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sliding. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to access the frame. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and test it for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they stay in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, causing them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as fast as possible so that your uPVC windows are waterproof and draught-proof.

uPVC handles could also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could also be due to the mechanism of the handle wears out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then return the mechanism to its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to act if you awake each day to find a smoky wall and wet floors. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also hinder your ability to control the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be completed by any DIYer who has the ability. Based on the severity of the problem the old caulking might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This can make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

It is important to check that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in a breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will wear out over time. It is essentially a simple process, but it's simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame up.

Check that the upvc repairs hinges are open and closed in the correct direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge, this shows which way the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or by a poor installation in the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often solve the issue. We are always happy to provide suggestions.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal method of doing this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to operate and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different factors. The hinges can also be disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause gaps where the sash and frame meet. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. In addition, the interlock could be unbalanced. This is located on the hinge's side and might require to be cleaned. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace these.

These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce the risk of 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 that can be placed over your window repairing sill. They can help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window, it's best to consult a professional as soon as you can.