Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.

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

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, which can make it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. If windows with double panes are joined by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall onto the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will prevent drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sliding. A sagging window in uPVC could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action when you realize that your uPVC windows are sagging.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, remove both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and check for fitting. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in the right position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it does not then you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to act if you get up each morning to find a smoky wall and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature within your home. The most common cause for leaks in upvc window repair windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or is missing.

It is a fairly easy fix that can be completed by any competent DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer is applied. It is important to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk and then make the area harder to clean and decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more severe situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily repaired by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame if your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it opens with an ease. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be done within a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side hung upvc window repairs near me windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. It's very simple to change a window hinge but it's much simpler if you have someone to help you to hold the frame.

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 indicates the direction in which the window repair should open.

The problem with the hinges on windows could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a picture through our website can often solve the issue. We are happy to give assistance.

It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window repair near me easier to open and close. It also decreases the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a few different factors. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, causing a gap where the sash and frame meet. These can be easily repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, may also become misaligned, again it may be feasible to give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

The seals may wear out or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Installing high-quality weatherstripping can help stop draughts. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures, and also lessen the risk of draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repair, your upvc windows will continue to provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to realize that all windows have a life span and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult an expert as soon as you can.