11 Ways To Totally Block Your Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they do not rust or rot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.

For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the old panes and put in new ones. In this case, you will need to source some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass so that any shards fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor, where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from entering the property until a professional can come out and repair the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap between the door and the window is significant, you may want to use a security screen that also has a window. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues like sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you notice that your uPVC window repairs near me 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 to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows to get at the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, remove the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in place.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading 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. Often it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to shut the window and do an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it is important that you take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and also hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or not present.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and can reduce your energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris in them and that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you might need to consider replacing the window repair near me.

Other indicators of water leakage are decayed 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 house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between 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 sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or loose and open with a breeze it could be hinges at fault. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be done within a few minutes.

Like any mechanical part hinges will be damaged over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process, but it's easier with someone else to help you hold the frame in place.

Check that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.

Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often solve the issue. We are always happy to give assistance.

It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is an ideal method to accomplish this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges can also become misaligned due to wear, causing gaps where the sash meets frame. If they are beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it's possible to just give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to get them replaced.

The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of 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 in regulating indoor temperatures, and also lessen draughts.

The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cozy!

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to recognise that all windows have a life span and they may reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window you should consult a professional as soon as possible.