Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to rust or rot.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the old frame very easily. However, if windows with double panes are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to remove the old panes and put in new ones. In this case you'll need to find some plastic spacers that assist the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.

If you plan to try to remove the window panes yourself, it is essential to wear the proper safety gear such as gloves that are thick and protective eyewear. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass, so that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional is able to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is large, you may be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's crucial to act fast to prevent the problem from becoming worse.

To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, remove both the top and uPVC repair bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having repositioned your hinges. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to hold them in the right position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out and cause them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. The leaks of water from windows do are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or missing.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue is, uPVC repair the old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.

Other indicators of water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem 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 could be the reason if your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it blows open with an ease. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.

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

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular way or due to poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are happy to give advice.

It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause an opening where the sash meets frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window replacement and can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to get them replaced.

These seals can wear down or become 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 control indoor temperatures and decrease draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective methods to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes filled with some kind of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come an point at which it is more economical to replace them than fix them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.