Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good repair.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they typically fit into frames of the past easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this case it is essential to purchase plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

If you're planning attempt to remove the window panes yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall onto the cloth rather than on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to stop drafts and water from entering the home until a professional comes out and fix the window. This also serves as a barrier to prevent any intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might think about the security door with an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash window. However, over time they are susceptible to a range of problems including 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's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from worsening.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows so you can reach the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off 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 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 aren't able to move the hinges you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and upvc window repairs lose their elasticity with time, causing them to lose their tightness. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your upvc window repairs window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it could also be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it does not, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

If you're waking up to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Windows that leak water do can not only cause destruction of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. It is essential to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, upvc window repairs you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators of water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. It is also possible to be repaired by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or loose and blow open in a breeze it could be hinges that are at the fault. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.

Like any mechanical component hinges will be damaged over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple process, but it's simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame in place.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.

The issue can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or a faulty installation in the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are happy to offer advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the possibility of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges can also become misaligned due to wear, which can cause a gap where the sash and frame meet. If they are beyond repair, it may be required to realign them. Second, the interlock can also become unbalanced. This is located on the hinge's side and may need to be cleaned. In some instances it is possible to replace the hinges.

The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to prevent draughts. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the possibility of draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to cut down on the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be positioned on the windowsill on top. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually get worn out and it may be more cost-effective to simply replace them instead of fixing them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window you should consult an expert as soon as you can.