Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they don't rust or rot.

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

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to keep your windows in good shape.

For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double pane windows that are anchored by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the old panes and put in new ones. In this case, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass, so that any shards fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from getting into the property until a professional comes out and repair the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about the security door with an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging uPVC windows can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window to access the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and verify the fitting. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws until they stay in the right place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to loosen. It is essential to replace your seal as quickly as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it could be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. The first step is to close the window and perform an initial test fit. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then return the mechanism to its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if you get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on the severity of the issue the old caulking might need to be removed before a new layer can be put on. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This can make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

It is crucial to make sure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might need to consider replacing the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is more related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can fix this door repairs issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack 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.

Like any mechanical part, hinges can be damaged over time. It is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame up.

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

Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular manner or because of inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website will often solve the issue. We are always happy to offer suggestions.

It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges regularly. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This will cause an opening to appear where the sash meets the frame. If they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it's feasible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.

The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.

Another method of reducing drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually made of 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 to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a life span and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than fix them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.