Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum or timber.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into old frames very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers in order to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

If you plan to try to remove the window panes yourself it is important to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and eye protection. It is also an excellent idea 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 can be trampled upon and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from entering the property until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are an affordable energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, they can develop a number of problems, including sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's crucial to act fast to prevent the problem from worsening.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sagging. To do this, you'll need to open the window to get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and check for fit. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they stay in the right place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, causing them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as possible so that your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.

UPVC handles can also loosen up. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it could be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. The first step is to close your window and do a test fit. The corners of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and doors then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also impact your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is damaged or missing.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be put on. It is crucial to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are also signs of water leakage. This mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread across the home.

It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily fix 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 slack and open with a breeze, it may be the hinges that are at the fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. It is very easy to replace a hinge on a window but it's much easier if someone else helps you to hold the frame.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

window doctor near me hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are happy to give suggestions.

It is also essential to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great method to accomplish this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also reduce the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. This must be done at a minimum 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 factors. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, creating an opening where the sash and frame meet. If they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. Second, the interlock can be unbalanced. It is located on the hinge side and could require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the hinges.

The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through the gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity lenses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the risk of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some sort of filler and can be put on top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually become 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 as soon as possible.