10 Websites To Help You Be A Pro In Repairs To Upvc Windows

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 decay or rust as aluminum or timber.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will reduce repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good condition.

Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace and generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is significant, you may prefer security screens that includes an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are a cost-effective energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window to access the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and verify the fitting. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, tighten the screws to secure them in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.

UPVC handles can also loosen up. This is typically caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle wears out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close the window and then perform an experiment to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial 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 undermine your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This can make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the home.

It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. A upvc repairs near me specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or are loose and open in a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. They can be replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in just 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 can wear down over time. It is essentially a simple process but it can be easier to do when you have a person to help you hold the frame in place.

Check that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused by opening the window improperly or a faulty installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a picture on our website. We will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. The ideal time to do this once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes a gap to form between the sash and the frame. They can be fixed by giving them a good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it is possible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.

These seals can wear down or get damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be placed over your window sill. They will help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!

Your windows made of upvc will remain a great source of insulation and security to your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it may be cheaper to replace them than to repair them. If you encounter any issues with your Upvc window, it's best to consult a professional immediately.