Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause serious damage to your home and 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 old frames very easily. However If windows with double panes are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation you'll need to source some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled.

It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is large, you may think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time, they can suffer from a variety of issues like sagging. A sagging window in uPVC can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you discover that your uPVC windows are sliding.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver, and then adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and check for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in place.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles could also loosen. Most often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash need to align 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're waking up to damp floors and mouldy walls each 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 regulate the temperature within your home. The most common reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or is missing.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a new layer is applied. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window repair near me, it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal than the frame. This can be easily corrected by an uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason if your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens with a breeze. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.

Like any mechanical part hinges will be damaged over time. It is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier to do if you have someone to help hold the frame up.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. You can do this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to offer advice.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, causing a gap where the sash meets frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them a good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it's possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.

The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity lenses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the possibility of draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically made of fabric that are filled with some sort of filler and can be placed on top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little regular maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them than to repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc window it is recommended to speak with a professional as soon as you can.