A List Of Common Errors That People Make With Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they do not corrosion or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good condition.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they typically fit into frames of the past easily. If you have double glazing-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass, so that any fragments of glass fall onto the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your property until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might be interested in the security door with an integrated window, since it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. In time, they could develop a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from getting worse.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and check for an appropriate fit. If you are happy with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to secure them in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. Most often it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it could be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close the window and perform an initial test fit. The joints at the corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism to position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if awake each day to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be completed by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the issue is, old caulking may have to be removed. It is crucial 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 could decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.

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

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens in a breeze. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they will wear out over time. It's very simple to replace a hinge on a window however it is simpler if you have someone to help 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 direction the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain manner or because of inadequate installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.

It is also essential to grease the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal method of doing this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by various factors. The hinges may also become disaligned as a result of wear, causing gaps where the sash and frame meet. This can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock may be misaligned. This is located on the hinge's side and may need to be cleaned. In certain instances it might be necessary to replace the hinges.

The next common reason for draughts is window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glasses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and lessen draughts.

The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

Your windows made of upvc will remain a great source of insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it may be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult a professional immediately.