Repairs To Upvc Windows Isn't As Tough 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. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not get rusty or decay.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating upvc window repairs near me windows and doors is vital. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is essential to take the time to make sure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the replacement will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. However If you have double pane windows that are secured by internal beading it will be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled.

Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to stop water and drafts from entering the property until a professional can come out and fix the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap 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 an affordable energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they can suffer from a variety of issues like sagging. A sagging window in uPVC can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it is important to act swiftly to prevent the problem from worsening.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as possible so that your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

upvc window repair handles can also loosen up. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it could also be due to the handle mechanism wears out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and perform an initial fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window repair leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may require removal before a fresh layer can be put on. It is important to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk and then make the area more difficult to clean and can reduce the efficiency of your energy.

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed window, it is more likely the issue is more related to the seal, not the frame. 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 difficult to open, or are loose and blow open with ease It could be the hinges that are at fault. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can be completed in just a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will be damaged over time. It's easy to change the hinges on a window but it's much simpler if you have someone to help 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 arrows on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should open.

Faulty window hinges could be caused by improperly opening the window a certain way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a picture through our website can often solve the issue. We are happy to provide advice.

Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window open and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. Ideally, you should do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This will cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them realigned. Second, the interlock can be disaligned. This is located on the hinge's side and could require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace them.

The second most frequent reason for draughts is window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the possibility of draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. They can help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come an point at which it is more economical to replace them than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your upvc window repairs it is recommended to speak with an expert as soon as possible.