5 Laws Everyone Working In Repairs To Upvc Windows Should Know

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to get rusty or decay.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will save you from costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you're doing all you can to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace windows, and the new one is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. However, if you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case you'll need find some plastic spacers that assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your property until a professional comes out to repair the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access to your home. If the distance between the door and the window is large, you might need to consider security screens that has a window. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act when you notice 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 to get to the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and test it for fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to loosen. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism wears 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 perform an initial fitting. The joint at the corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver 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 get up each morning to find a smoky wall and wet floors. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking may have to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

It is important to check that the drainage holes are free 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 replace the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the home.

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

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with a breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier to do if you have someone to assist in holding the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. This can be done by looking for the arrow on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or due to a poor installation in the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to offer suggestions.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a good way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to open and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different factors. The hinges may also become misaligned due to wear, causing gaps where the sash and frame meet. If they are damaged beyond repair, it may be necessary to get them re-aligned. Second, the interlock can be misaligned. This happens on the hinge side and might require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace these.

The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures, and also reduce the possibility of draughts.

The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. They will help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a little maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually wear out and it may be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc window, it's best to consult an expert immediately.