Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not rust or rot.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

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

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the old frame very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case it is essential to buy plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled.

After the glass has been removed, it’s a good idea to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the property until a professional comes out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is large, you might think about a security door that has 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 made of sash. As time passes, they may develop a number of problems such as sliding. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it’s important to act quickly to prevent the problem from becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sagging. To do this, you’ll need to open the window to access the frame. Then, remove both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you’ve adjusted the hinges, shut your window and check for fit. If you are happy with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to keep them in place.

If you can’t reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause their tightness to decrease. It is essential to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and UPVC Window Repairs draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. Luckily, it’s not difficult to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. You’ll first need to close the window and then perform an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it doesn’t then you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degradation of your home’s structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature in your home. The most common reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or not present.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up may 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 and then make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and that the sill pan is properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazing glazed windows, it’s more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it blows open with a breeze. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be completed in just a few minutes.

Most households 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’s easy to replace a hinge on a window however it is simpler if you have someone to help you hold the frame.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should open.

The problem can be caused by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to give assistance.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which can cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them good cleaning, but in the event that they are beyond repair it may be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it may be feasible to give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to cut down on draughts is by using a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes that are filled with some kind of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security in your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually get worn out and it may be cheaper to replace them rather than repair them. So, if you’re experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it’s best to seek professional assistance immediately.