Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. They do not rot or rust like timber and aluminum.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will reduce repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows could cause serious damage to your home and even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the replacement will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this case you'll need locate some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled.

After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the property until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap between the door and the window repairs near me is significant, you may prefer a security screen that also has a window. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are falling down.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. Then, using a screwdriver, you can take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in position.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

UPVC handles can also loosen. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and perform an initial test to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it is important that you take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home, and impact your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously may need to be removed before a new layer of caulk is applied. It is essential to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are another sign of water leakage. The fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the problem is related to the seal, not the frame. Again this can easily be corrected by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or loose and blow open with a breeze It could be hinges at fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually done within a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's very simple to change the hinges on a window but it's much simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper direction. This can be done by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or by a poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website will often resolve the problem. We are happy to provide advice.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a few different factors. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. They can be repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. Second, the interlock can be disaligned. This is located on the hinge's side and could require to be cleaned. In some cases it might be necessary to replace them.

The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping can help prevent draughts. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and lessen draughts.

The last way to reduce draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security to your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it is more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc window repair near me windows, it is best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.