Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

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

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double glazing repairs pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to remove the existing panes and install new ones. In this instance you'll need find some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit properly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.

Once the glass has been removed and the glass is removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the property until a professional comes out and repair the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might be interested in the security door with an integrated window, as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.

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 access the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to unscrew the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after having moved your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to secure them in the right position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as possible so that your uPVC windows are waterproof and draught-proof.

uPVC handles may also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism wears out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close your window and do an initial test to ensure that it fits. The corners of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it does not, you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to act if you get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. The leaks of water from windows do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window repair leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is essential to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan has been angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you might need to consider replacing the window.

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

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely the problem is with the seal than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens in a breeze. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window but it's much simpler if you have someone to help you hold the frame.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.

The issue can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or due to a poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often solve the issue. We are always happy to give suggestions.

Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different things. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This can cause a gap to form between the sash and the frame. If they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. In addition, the interlock could also become unbalanced. This is located on the hinge's side and may need to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace these.

The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and let air escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.

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

The windows made of upvc can continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is essential to remember that all windows eventually become worn out, and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as you can.