Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the replacement will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to get rid of the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

If you are going attempt to remove the window panes yourself it is important to wear the appropriate safety equipment such as gloves that are thick and eye protection. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.

It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is large, you might prefer security screens that has windows. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues such as sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, replacement it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from worsening.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can access the frame. With a screwdriver, you can unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've repositioned your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to hold them in place.

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

uPVC handles could also loosen. Most often, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it could also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close your window and do a test fit. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and hinder your ability to control the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid 'over-caulking'. This will make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them and that the sill pan is properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more severe situations, you may have to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the home.

It is also important to remember that if the leak originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. Again this can easily be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

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

Like any mechanical component hinges will be damaged over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window however it is easier if someone helps you hold the frame.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the correct direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should open.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are happy to give suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to open and close more easily. It can also lower the chance of windows sticking and help prevent corrosion. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by different factors. The hinges, also due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this causes gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. The interlock may also become unbalanced. This happens on the hinge's side and may need to be cleaned. In certain instances it might be necessary to replace these.

The seals may wear out or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures, and also reduce draughts.

Another method of reducing drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. They can help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cozy!

Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows eventually get worn out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them instead of fixing them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window, it's best to consult an expert immediately.