5 Laws Everybody In Repairs To Upvc Windows Should Know

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't get rusty or decay.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to make sure that you're doing everything you can to keep your windows in good repair.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However, if you have double pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this case, you will need to find some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and uPVC window repairs heavy gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap between the window and the door is substantial, you may need to consider security screens that includes a window. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act as soon as you notice your upvc repairs windows are sagging.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can access the frame. With an screwdriver, remove the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and draught-proof.

uPVC handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can also be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corner of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's important to take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also affect your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is a simple fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes are free of debris inside them and that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window doctor. In more serious situations, you may need to think about replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass it is more likely the issue is more with the seal rather than the frame. This can be easily fixed by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or are loose and blow open with ease, it may be hinges that are at fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple process, but it's easier with someone else to help hold the frame in place.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper direction. You can check this by looking for the arrow on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or due to poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are more than happy to offer advice.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window operate and close more smoothly. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. The ideal time to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a variety of various factors. The hinges may also become misaligned due to wear, creating a gap between the frame and sash. These can be easily repaired by giving them good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to just give them a clean but in some instances it could be necessary to have these replaced.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided 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 also reduce draughts.

Another, and most effective methods to reduce 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. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a little maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually get worn out and it may be more cost-effective to simply replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance immediately.