Repairs To Upvc Windows Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not corrosion or rot.

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

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it could cause a large deal 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 all you can to keep your windows in good condition.

For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the old frame very easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation you'll need to source some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass, so that any shards fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from getting into the property until a professional comes out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the gap is large, you may be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from worsening.

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 get to the frame. With an screwdriver, remove the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they remain in the right place.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as soon as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are waterproof and safe from drafts.

UPVC handles can also loosen up. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature within your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame has been damaged or not present.

It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the old caulking may require removal before a new layer can be applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This will only make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris in them and ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might have to consider replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely the issue is more with the seal rather than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue 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 loose and blow open in a breeze It could be hinges that are at fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Like any mechanical component hinges will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple process, but it's simpler when you have a person to help you hold the frame up.

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

The issue can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a picture via our website and we will be happy to give you advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We suggest using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, causing an opening where the sash and frame meet. If they are damaged beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it's possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to get them replaced.

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

Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be hung over your window sill. They will help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

Your windows made of upvc will keep providing excellent insulation and security in your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc repair windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.