Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not get rusty or decay.

It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the replacement is usually able to fit into the old frame very easily. If you have double glazing Ashford-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

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

It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional arrives to fix the window. This also serves as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is large, you might be interested in a security door that has an integrated window, since it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging window in uPVC can cause issues 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 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 Repairs Crawley to access the frame. Then, remove both the hinges at the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window repairs Burnham to check the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, window repairs Crawley you can tighten screws to hold them in the right position.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

UPVC handles can also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to shut the window and then perform a test fitting. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then return the mechanism to its original its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the old caulking may require removal before a new layer can be put on. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.

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

Other indicators of water leakage include rotted 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 throughout the home.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal than the frame. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or slack and open with ease It could 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 process but it can be easier to do if you have someone to help you hold the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges are open 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 be opened.

The problem with the hinges on windows could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a picture on our website. We will be happy to give you advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. The ideal time to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear may become displaced, which causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. Second, the interlock can also become unbalanced. It is located on the hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace these.

The next common reason for draughts is window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and let air escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce draughts.

Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. They can help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cozy!

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security in your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and they may reach an point at which it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc you should consult an expert immediately.