Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.

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 dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor and could be trampled.

It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

upvc window repairs windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, over time, they can suffer from a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging window in uPVC can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are sliding.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can access the frame. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in position.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it can also be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to shut the window and then perform an initial fitting. The corners of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial to take action if you get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the destruction of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is damaged or missing.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk and then make the area harder to clean and reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Check that any drainage holes have no debris inside them and that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you may need to think about replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the issue is related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or slack and blow open with ease, it may be hinges that are at fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix these in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have 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 a window hinge however it is easier if someone helps hold the frame.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the proper direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused either 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 always happy to give suggestions.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window open and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different factors. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, creating an opening where the sash meets frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be misaligned. This happens on the hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace these.

The next most common reason for draughts is window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and let air escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc window repair windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and lessen the possibility of draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually 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 bit of regular maintenance and repair your 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 all windows have a lifespan and they may reach an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than repair them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional immediately.