Repairs To Upvc Windows It's Not As Expensive As You Think

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like aluminum and timber.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and even be fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed 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 you'll need source some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

If you are going to attempt to remove the window panes by yourself it is crucial to wear the appropriate safety equipment that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and protective eyewear. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled.

It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional arrives to repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, they can develop a variety of issues that include sliding. A sagging uPVC windows could cause issues 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 worsening.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. 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 anti-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, shut your window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they stay in position.

If you aren't able to move the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause them to lose tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

uPVC handles may also loosen up. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it can also be due to the mechanism of the handle wears out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. You'll first need to close the window and perform a test fitting. The corners of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home, and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or not present.

This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a new layer of caulk is applied. It is important to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and can reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Check that any drainage holes have no debris in them and that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window repairs near me.

Mold spots and rotted sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. This can be easily corrected by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open with a breeze It could be hinges 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 have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they can wear down over time. It is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier if you have someone to help you hold the frame in place.

It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a certain way or by improper installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a picture via our website and we will be more than happy to give you suggestions.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges regularly. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 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 is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by different things. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This causes an opening to appear where the sash meets the frame. If they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it is possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

The seals may wear out or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help keep draughts at bay. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.

Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security in your home with regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.