Repairs To Upvc Windows: It's Not As Difficult As You Think

Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from costly repairs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed 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 instance, you will need to locate some plastic spacers that assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a great idea tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your property until a professional comes out to repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you might think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they can suffer from a variety of issues like sagging. A window that is sagging 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.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sagging. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. Then, using a screwdriver, you can take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close the window and test it for fitting. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, tighten the screws to secure them in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as fast as possible so that your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. The first step is to close the window and then perform an experiment fit. The corners of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it isn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or missing.

This is a simple fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the problem the old caulking might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, you should avoid 'over-caulking'. This will make your window repair near me more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more severe cases, you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators of water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The mold thrives in damp environments and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.

It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or are loose and blow open with ease, it may be the hinges that are at fault. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Most households 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. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to help hold the frame up.

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

The problem with the hinges on windows can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or due to poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often resolve the problem. We are always happy to provide suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, which can cause a gap where the sash and frame meet. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it is possible to give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.

The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help keep draughts at bay. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen draughts.

One of the most effective ways to cut down on drafts is to use a draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be positioned on the windowsill on top. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will provide excellent security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows eventually become worn out, and it may be more cost-effective to simply replace them than to repair them. If you encounter any issues with your window made of upvc you should consult a professional immediately.