Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they don't rust or rot.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will help prevent costly repairs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to take the time to make sure that you're doing all you can to ensure that your windows are in good repair.

For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace them, and the replacement will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and replacement thick gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not on the floor and could be trampled under.

It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is substantial, you may need to consider a security screen that also includes an opening. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sagging. 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's important to act quickly to stop the issue from worsening.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sliding. First, you'll need to open the windows to reach the frame. Then, remove both the hinges at the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and verify the an appropriate fit. If you are happy with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to keep them in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also loosen up. Most often, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the loose upvc window repair near me window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and then perform a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if you wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and replacement hinder your ability to control the temperature of your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or not present.

This is an easy fix that can be completed by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may require removal before a new layer of caulk can be applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan has been angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.

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

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed window, it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal than the frame. It is also possible to be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and open with a breeze it could be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually completed in just a few minutes.

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

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or by a poor installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great method to accomplish this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different causes. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, creating gaps where the sash and frame meet. These can be easily repaired by giving them good clean, but if they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to just give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.

The next most common reason for draughts is window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric which are filled with a sort of filler and can be placed on the top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a life span and there may come an point at which it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance immediately.