Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they do not rust or rot.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it could cause a large amount of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good repair.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. If you have double glazing-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this case it is essential to buy plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor and could be trampled under.

After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to stop drafts and water from entering the home until a professional comes out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues, including sliding. A sagging window in uPVC could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you discover that your uPVC windows are sliding.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows to access the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, remove the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close your window and verify the fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to hold them in the right position.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and upvc repair dry out, which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.

uPVC handles may also loosen. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle wears out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close the window and perform an experiment fit. 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. Then turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to act if you awake each day to find a smoky wall and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature within your home. The most common cause for upvc repair leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or is missing.

This is an easy fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on how severe the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This can make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes have no debris in them and ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might have to consider replacing the window.

Other indicators of water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives under damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the home.

It is also important to note that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame if your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it opens in an ease. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually completed in just a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It is essentially a very simple process, but it's simpler if you have someone to assist in holding the frame in place.

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

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a particular manner or because of inadequate installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photo via our website and we will be happy to give you advice.

It is also essential to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, creating gaps between the frame and sash. They can be fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. The interlock may also become disaligned. This happens on the hinge's side, and may need to be cleaned. In certain instances it might be necessary to replace these.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce the possibility of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes that are filled with some sort of filler and can be placed on top of your windowsill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

The windows made of upvc can remain a great source of insulation and security to your home with regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a life span and they may reach an point at which it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc window repairs windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as you can.