Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs and increase 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 make sure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the replacement will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. If windows with double glazing near me panes are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers in order to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor, where they could be trampled under.

Once the glass is removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from getting into the property until a professional comes out and fix the window. This also serves as an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could be affected by a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC window could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you notice your uPVC windows are sliding.

Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sagging. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can reach the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to unscrew the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close your window and verify the an appropriate fit. If you are happy with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to keep them in the right position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to lose their tightness. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

uPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it could also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close your window and do an initial test fit. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it does not then you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then turn the mechanism to position.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it's crucial to take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris in them and that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the house.

It is also important to note that if the leak is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily fixed by an 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 it opens with a breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Like any mechanical component hinges are prone to be damaged over time. It is very easy to replace a hinge on a window but it's much easier if someone else helps you hold the frame.

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

Faulty window hinges could be caused by improperly opening the window a certain manner or because of improper installation in the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are always happy to provide advice.

Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make 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 should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different things. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This will cause gaps to develop between the sash and the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock may be misaligned. It is located on the hinge's side and may need to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.

The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be avoided 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 again will lessen the possibility of draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric that are filled with some type of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. They will help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional immediately.