The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They don't get rotten or rusty like timber and aluminum.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to keep your windows in good condition.

Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into old frames very easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation, you will need to find some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will stop water and drafts from entering your home until a professional arrives to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access into your home. If the distance between the window and the door is substantial, you may prefer security screens that has an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of problems including sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's important to take action as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are sliding.

To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges at the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having relocated your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to hold them in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles can also become loose. Most often it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it could be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test fit. The joint at the corner of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and turn the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and impact your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or not present.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, the old caulking may have to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid 'over-caulking'. This will only make your window replacement near me more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

It is crucial to make sure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed window, it is more likely the problem is with the seal than the frame. It is also possible to be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, uPVC repair or are loose and open in a breeze, it may be the hinges that are at the fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they can wear down over time. It is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier if you have someone to help hold the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the right direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should open.

The problem can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation in the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often resolve the problem. We are more than happy to provide suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to open and close more easily. It also decreases the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This should be done at least 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 several different causes. The hinges may also become misaligned due to wear, which can cause an opening where the sash and frame meet. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it may be possible to just 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, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will lessen the possibility of draughts.

Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. They can help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security for your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window replacement, it's best to consult a professional immediately.