Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they don't corrosion or rot.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they typically 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 panes that were previously in use. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.
If you plan to try to remove the window panes by yourself it is important to wear appropriate safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and eye protection. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.
It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using the security door with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. Over time, they can develop a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from getting worse.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can access the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and check for fit. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they remain in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.
uPVC handles may also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's relatively simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to take action if you wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and affect your ability to regulate 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.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a new layer of caulk can be put on. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should avoid over-caulking. This will make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris in them and that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open in a breeze it could be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they can wear down over time. window repairs to change a window hinge but it's much simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame.
Check that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. You can do this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.
Window hinges that aren't working properly could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a certain manner or because of improper installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be more than happy to give you suggestions.
It is also important to lubricate the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to operate and close more smoothly. It can also stop 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 parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be required to realign them. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can also become misaligned, again it is possible to just give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.
The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through the gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and lessen the possibility of draughts.
Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will continue to provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows eventually become worn out, and it could be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. If you have any problems with your upvc window it is recommended to speak with an expert as soon as you can.