Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to decay or rust as aluminum or timber.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good repair.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading it will be more difficult to remove the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall onto the cloth rather than on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the home until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from getting worse.

Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sliding. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to access the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to secure them in the right position.

If you aren't able to move the hinges you may need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to loosen. If this happens, Window Repairs 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. Often, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has been 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 be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame has been damaged or is missing.

It is a fairly easy fix that can be completed by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking might need to be removed before a fresh layer is applied. It is essential to remember that when it is about upvc window repair near me window repairs you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

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

Mold spots and rotted sills are other signs of water leakage. This mold thrives in damp environments and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal than the frame. It is also possible to be fixed by an 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 slack and open with a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Like any mechanical part, hinges can wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier when you have a person to help hold the frame in place.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should open.

The problem with the hinges on windows could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or by inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often solve the issue. We are always happy to give advice.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a good method of doing this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This must be done at a minimum 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 a variety of different things. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear may become displaced, which can cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. These can be easily fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, may also become misaligned, again it may be possible to just give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.

The next common cause of draughts is the window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce the possibility of draughts.

Another, and most effective methods to reduce drafts is to use an draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some type of filler. They can be placed on the top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach the point when it's more cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.