Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they are not susceptible to get rusty or decay.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to take the time to ensure that you're doing everything you can to keep your windows in good repair.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one will generally fit within the old frame very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this case, you will need to find some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor, where they could be trampled.

After the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional is able to come out and repair the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using 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 windows made of sash. As time passes, they may develop a number of problems such as sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act when you discover that your uPVC windows are falling down.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows to get at the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and test it for fit. If you are happy with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to hold them in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. The first step is to close the window and perform a test fit. The joints at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to act if you get up each morning to find a smoky wall and wet floors. The leaks of water from windows do are not just a cause for destruction of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or is missing.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and can reduce your energy efficiency.

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more severe situations, you may have to replace the window.

Other indicators of water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the home.

It is also important to remember that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem 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 are loose and open in a breeze it could be the hinges that are at fault. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. It is essentially a simple process but it can be simpler if you have someone to assist in holding the frame in place.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window repair should be opened.

The problem can be caused either by opening the window improperly or by a poor installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often resolve the problem. We are always happy to give suggestions.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method of doing this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it's feasible to give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to have these replaced.

The next most common reason for draughts is window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help control indoor temperatures and decrease the possibility of draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. They will help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a bit of regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc window repair will provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it may be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional immediately.