Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and also improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and even be fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good working order.

Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace and will usually fit into the frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double glazing-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers in order to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor, where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from entering the property until a professional can come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is large, you may be interested in the security door 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 sash windows. In time, they could develop a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging window in uPVC can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are sliding.

To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows to reach the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to hold them in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes their tightness to decrease. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also loosen. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and perform a test fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home, and hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is damaged or not present.

This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously may require removal before a new layer can be applied. It is important to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might need to consider replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives under conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leak is coming from between the glass in your double glazing glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. Again this can easily be fixed by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and restore 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 blows open with a breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that use hinges and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple process, but it's easier when you have a person to assist in holding the frame up.

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

The problem can be caused either by opening the window improperly or due to a poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be happy to give you suggestions.

Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We suggest using an oil that does not 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 every year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of different factors. The hinges may also become misaligned due to wear, causing gaps where the sash meets frame. They can be fixed by giving them a good clean, but if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, may also become misaligned, again it's possible to just give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.

The next common reason for draughts are the window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time and let air escape through the gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce the risk of draughts.

The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. They can help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.