Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will save you from costly repairs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However when you have double pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation you'll need to find some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass, so that any fragments of glass fall onto the cloth rather than on the floor, where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to stop drafts and water from entering the home until a professional comes out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using the security door with an integrated window as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash window. In time, they could develop a variety of issues that include sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from getting worse.

Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window to access the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and test it for fitting. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, tighten the screws to secure them in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.

upvc window repairs handles may also loosen. Most often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. You'll first need to close the window repairs and perform an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into 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. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the destruction of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or is missing.

This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how severe the problem is, the old caulking may have to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This will make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes are free of debris in them and ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows it may be more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. This can be easily fixed by an uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or are loose and blow open with ease It could be hinges that are at the fault. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's very simple to change the hinges on a window, but it's 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. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method of doing this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more smoothly. It can also lower the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This should be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. The hinges, also due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this causes a gap to form where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to just give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to have these replaced.

The next common reason for draughts is window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.

Another method of reducing drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window repairs near me sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually get worn out and it may be more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.