Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They don't rot or rust like aluminum or timber.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is essential to take the time to make sure that you're doing everything you can to keep your windows in good condition.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the old frame very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case you'll need to find some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.

If you plan to try to remove the glass panes yourself it is important to wear the proper safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and protective eyewear. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.

It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your property until a professional arrives to repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of problems including sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's crucial to act fast 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 need to open the window to access the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they stay in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, window repairs it's essential to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your upvc window repairs near me windows are watertight and draught-proof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. Often this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to repair the loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to wet floors and damp walls each 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 regulate the temperature in your home. The most common reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame has been damaged or not present.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any DIY expert. Depending on the severity of the problem the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer can be applied. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace the window repairs near me.

Other signs of long-term water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives under conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.

It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or slack and open with a breeze, it may be the hinges that are at fault. They can be repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be done within a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will wear out over time. It's very simple to change a window hinge but it's much simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame.

Check that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the right direction. This can be done by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This shows which way the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a picture on our website. We will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a good method of doing this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. The ideal time to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different causes. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which will cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. Second, the interlock can also become misaligned. It is located on the hinge side and may need to be cleaned. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the hinges.

The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time, and let air escape through the gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.

The last way to reduce draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security for your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it may be more cost-effective to replace them than to repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.