20 Things You Should Know About Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum or timber.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they will usually fit into the old frames very easily. However, if windows with double panes are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to get rid of the existing panes and install new ones. In this case, you will need to locate some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit properly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass, so that any shards fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap is large, you may be interested in 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, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sliding. A sagging uPVC window could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from worsening.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sagging. You'll first 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 counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've repositioned your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in position.

If you can't reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause them to lose tightness. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. Most often, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it could be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close the window and then perform an experiment fit. The joint at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains it's important to take action. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and can reduce your energy efficiency.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.

Other indicators of water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double glazed window repairs-glazed window, it is more likely that the issue is more related to the seal, not the frame. Again this can easily be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault if your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens with a breeze. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix these in a matter of minutes.

Like all mechanical parts, hinges can wear out over time. It is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier to do when you have a person to help you hold the frame up.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. This can be done by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should open.

The problem with the hinges on windows can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo through our website can often resolve the problem. We are happy to provide advice.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great method to accomplish this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to operate and close more smoothly. It can also lower the risk of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a few different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This will cause an opening to appear between the sash and the frame. If they are beyond repair, it may 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 just give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.

The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time, and let air escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping can help prevent draughts. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce the possibility of draughts.

The final method to cut down on draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!

Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security in your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows eventually become worn out, and Seal it may be more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. So, if you're experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance immediately.