Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't get rusty or decay.

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

1. Broken Glass

The damaged 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 relatively easy to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. However when 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 situation, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled.

It's a great idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might be interested in a security door that has an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may be affected by a variety of issues such as sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window to get to the frame. With an screwdriver, take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause them to loosen. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and draught-proof.

uPVC handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could also be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to shut the window and do an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains it's important to take action. The leaks of water from windows do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. The most common reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or missing.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue is, the old caulking may have to be removed. It is essential to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and reduce the efficiency of your energy.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other indicators of water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your upvc window repairs near me windows are stiff to open, or are loose and open with a breeze it could be hinges that are at the fault. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually completed in just a few 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. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is an easy process, but it's easier to do when you have a person to help you hold the frame up.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. Look 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 certain way or due to improper installation in the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are always happy to offer suggestions.

It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This can cause an opening to appear between the sash and the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, may also become misaligned, again it's feasible to give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.

The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the possibility of draughts.

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

With a little regular maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be cheaper to replace them rather than repair them. If you encounter any issues with your window repair near me made of upvc you should consult a professional as soon as you can.