The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to get rusty or decay.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your home until a professional is able to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is large, you might need to consider an alarm system 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. In time, they could develop a variety of issues that include sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it is important to act swiftly to prevent the problem from worsening.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window to access the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or upvc window repairs counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and check for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to secure them in the right position.

If you can't reposition the hinges you may require replacing the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes them to loosen. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also loosen. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it can also be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close your window and do a test to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if get up each morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and hinder your ability to control the temperature of your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously may need to be removed before a new layer can be applied. It is crucial to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators of water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This is a fungus that 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 related to the seal, not the frame. It is also possible to be corrected by an 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 slack and blow open with a breeze, it may be hinges that are at the fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window however it is easier if someone helps you to hold the frame.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a picture on our website. We will be happy to give you suggestions.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal method of doing this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window repairs near me operate and close more smoothly. It also decreases the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. The ideal time to do this at least 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 in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This causes a gap to form where the sash joins the frame. These can be easily fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it is possible to give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.

These seals can wear down or be 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 low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective methods to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes that are filled with some sort of filler and can be placed on the windowsill on top. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a lifespan and there may come the point when it's more economical to replace them than repair them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc windows, it's best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.