Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will reduce repair costs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

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 windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance it is essential to purchase plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

If you are going attempt to remove the window panes by yourself it is crucial to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass, so that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to stop water and drafts from entering the property until a professional comes out and fix the window repairs near me. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is substantial, you may need to consider an alarm system that includes windows. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of issues like sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window to access the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've repositioned your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they stay in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, causing them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as fast as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are waterproof and secure from draughts.

UPVC handles can also loosen up. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the handle mechanism wears out. It's relatively easy to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need close your window and do an experiment fit. The joints at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may require removal before a new layer can be put on. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes have no debris in them, and also that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives under conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed window, it is more likely the problem is with the seal rather than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or are loose and open with a breeze it could be the hinges that are at fault. Any competent DIYer can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is an easy process, but it's simpler when you have a person to help hold the frame in place.

Check that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should open.

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

It is also crucial to grease the hinges regularly. This can be done 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. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by different factors. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it may be possible to give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals. These can become worn down or damaged over time, and let air escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen the risk of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using an draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric which are filled with a type of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and glaziers repairs. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a life span and they may reach an point at which it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.