The 15 Things Your Boss Wishes You Knew About Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to decay or rust as aluminum or timber.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is crucial to take the time to make sure that you're doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good repair.

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 that are joined by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance you'll need find some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to stop drafts and water from entering the home until a professional comes out and fix the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the distance between the window and the door is large, you might prefer security screens that has windows. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a number of problems, including sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's crucial to act fast to prevent the problem from worsening.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. After that, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in place.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles can also loosen up. Most often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and also impact your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be completed by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC Window Doctor repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.

It is also important to note that if the leak is coming from between 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 fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and blow open in a breeze It could be hinges that are at fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix hinges in just a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is an easy process, but it's easier to do if you have someone to help you hold the frame in place.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular way or by inadequate installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a picture via our website and we will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great way to do this. We suggest using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window open and close more easily. It can also lower the risk of a window sticking and help prevent corrosion. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This causes an opening to appear where the sash meets the frame. They can be fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it is feasible to give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to have these replaced.

The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will lessen draughts.

Another, and most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric filled with some sort of filler and can be positioned on top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home with a little 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 than to repair them. So, if you're experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.