Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a great option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not rust or rot.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home and may even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace windows, and the new one is usually able to fit into the old frame very easily. However when you have double pane windows that are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

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

Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the property until a professional is able to come out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap between the window and the door repair is significant, you may prefer an alarm system that has windows. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

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

To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and test it for fitting. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws until they stay in position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as soon as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.

UPVC handles can also loosen up. Often, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to close the window and do an experiment fitting. The joint at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it is important that you take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and impact your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up may require removal before a fresh layer is applied. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and can reduce your energy efficiency.

It is crucial to make sure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious instances, you might have to consider replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and double glazing repairs can quickly spread across the house.

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

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in a breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have top-hung or side hung upvc window repairs near me windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is an easy process, but it's easier when you have a person to assist in holding the frame in place.

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

The issue could be caused by opening the window incorrectly or by a poor installation in the factory. Sending us a photo through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give assistance.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges 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 the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the risk of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. This should be done at least every 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 things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear may become displaced, which can cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they're beyond repair, it might be required to realign them. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it's feasible to give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. 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 decrease draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be put on top of your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as you can.