Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they do not rust or rot.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will prevent unnecessary 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 could even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation you'll need find some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit properly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.

It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your home until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

upvc window repairs near me is a long-lasting and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a number of problems such as sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it is important to act swiftly to prevent the problem from worsening.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to get at the frame. With a screwdriver, you can unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and verify the an appropriate fit. If you are happy with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in place.

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

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 also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close your window and do an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corner of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to act if you awake each day to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature in your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is damaged or missing.

This is a simple fix that can be completed by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously may require removal before a new layer of caulk is applied. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are also signs of water leakage. This mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread across the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass it is more likely the issue is more with the seal than the frame. Again this can easily be repaired by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in the breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will be damaged over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window but it's much easier if someone helps you hold the frame.

It is also important to verify that the upvc window repair hinges are opened and closed in the correct direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should be opened.

The issue could be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are happy to give advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal method of doing this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window operate and close more easily. It can also lower the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. Ideally, you should do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, creating an opening where the sash and frame meet. If they are beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned. In addition, the interlock could be misaligned. This is located on the hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the hinges.

These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using an draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some kind of filler. They can be put on the windowsill on top. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a little regular maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will provide excellent insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come the point when it's more economical to replace them than repair them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.