Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't get rusty or decay.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. If windows with double glazing panes are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this case it is essential to purchase plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

If you are going attempt to remove the window panes yourself it is crucial to wear appropriate safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and eye protection. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from getting into the property until a professional comes out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in the security door with an integrated window, as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may be affected by a variety of issues that include sliding. A sagging window in uPVC could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act as soon as you notice your uPVC windows are falling down.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. Then, remove both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and check for fitting. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws until they stay in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, causing them to loosen. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it could also be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to take action if you wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and impact your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking might need to be removed before a new layer is applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should avoid 'over-caulking'. This will make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

It is important to check that the drainage holes are free of debris and window doctor that the sill pan is angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are another sign of water leakage. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the home.

It is also important to note 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 sliding. Again this can easily be repaired by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason if your uPVC window doctor is difficult to open or if it opens in an ease. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process, but it's easier to do if you have someone to help you hold the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. You can do this by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should open.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or by inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to provide suggestions.

It is also essential to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We recommend 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 stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different factors. The hinges may also become unbalanced due to wear, which can cause an opening where the sash meets frame. They can be fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it may be feasible to give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and let air escape through the gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to prevent draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen draughts.

Another method of reducing the amount of draughts 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 keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security for window doctor your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually become worn out, and it is cheaper to replace them than to repair them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult a professional immediately.