Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause severe damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and will usually fit into the old frames very easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are anchored by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case, you will need to source some plastic spacers that aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the window frame.

If you plan attempt to remove the glass panes yourself it is crucial to wear appropriate safety gear, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall onto the cloth rather than on the floor, where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from getting into the property until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is large, you might prefer an alarm system that has an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are a cost-effective energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts, window repair and even security. It is crucial to act when you notice your uPVC windows are sliding.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. With a screwdriver, you can remove the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after having relocated your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, window repair tighten the screws to keep them in the right position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as soon as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are watertight and secure from draughts.

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. Fortunately, it's easy to fix the loose upvc window repairs near me window handle yourself. The first step is to close your window and do a test fit. The corners of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then return the mechanism to its original its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the issue the old caulking may require removal before a new layer of caulk can be applied. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window Repair repairs, do avoid the temptation to "over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and can reduce your energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris in them and that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.

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

It is also important to note that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix 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 a breeze it could be the hinges that are at fault. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually completed in a matter of minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. It's easy to change the hinges on a window but it's much easier if someone helps hold the frame.

It is also important to verify that the upvc window repairs near me hinges are opened and closed in the correct direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should open.

The problem with the hinges on windows can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain way or by improper installation in the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are always happy to give assistance.

It is also essential to grease the hinges regularly. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by different factors. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this will cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. If they are beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned. In addition, the interlock could also become disaligned. It is located on the hinge's side and might require to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.

The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. These can become worn down or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen the risk of draughts.

Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be hung over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will provide excellent insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to recognise that all windows have a life span and they may reach an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than repair them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.