Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken 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 condition.

Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace and will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. If windows with double glazing panes are held together by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need to find some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection 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 shards fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will prevent drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional comes out to repair the window. This also serves as an obstacle to stop intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in the security door with an integrated window, since it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, they can develop a variety of issues such as sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window so that you can get to the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, remove the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've repositioned your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to hold them in place.

If you can't reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also loosen up. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. You'll first need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The joint at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism to position.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to take action if wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degradation of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be done by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on how severe the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the house.

It is also important to note that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double glazing-glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it blows open with an ease. They can be replaced by any competent DIYer and can be done within a few minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's easy to change the hinges on a window however it is easier if someone else helps hold the frame.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should open.

The issue can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a picture on our website. We will be pleased to offer you advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to operate and close more easily. It can also lower the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a few various factors. The hinges can also be misaligned due to wear, which can cause gaps where the sash meets frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

The seals may wear out or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the risk of draughts.

The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cozy!

Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to realize that all windows have a life span and eventually, they will reach an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.