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 vital. This will save you from costly repairs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good condition.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they generally fit into old frames very easily. If you have double glazing near me-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this case, you will need to locate some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the frame of the window.

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

It's a good idea to seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your property until a professional is able to repair the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap between the door repair 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 low-cost energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time they can suffer from a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sliding. To do this, you'll have to open the window to get to the frame. Then, using a screwdriver, you can unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and verify the an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in the right place.

If you aren't able to move the hinges you may require replacing the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and secure from draughts.

uPVC handles may also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it could also be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism into 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 are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is important to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk and then make the area harder to clean and Window Repairs can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, window repairs you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators 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 conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. It is also possible to be corrected by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or loose and blow open with a breeze It could be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually done within a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts, hinges can wear out over time. It is very easy to change the hinges on a window but it's much easier if someone else helps you to hold the frame.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or by a poor installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photo through our website and we will be more than happy to give you suggestions.

It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes an opening to appear where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them a good clean, but if they are beyond repair it may be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. Second, the interlock can also become unbalanced. This happens on the hinge side and may need to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace them.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the risk of draughts.

Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be put on top of your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security for your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come a point where it is more economical to replace them than fix them. So, if you're experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.