11 Ways To Completely Sabotage Your Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is a fantastic option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They do not rot or rust like aluminum and timber.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this instance, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers in order to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging 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 repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can reach the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, take off the top and bottom hinges 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 size of the window, tighten the screws to secure them in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as possible so that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.

UPVC handles can also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could also be due to the handle mechanism wears out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and perform an initial fitting. The corners of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then return the mechanism to its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if you wake up every morning to discover 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 inside your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is damaged or is missing.

This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you should avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes have no debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you may need to think about replacing the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.

It is also important to note that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. 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 difficult to open, or are loose and open with a breeze, it may be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be done within a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung Upvc Window Repair windows that have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they can wear down over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple process, but it's simpler if you have someone to help you hold the frame up.

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

The issue could be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a picture through our website and we will be pleased to offer you advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. The ideal time to perform this every 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 few different things. The hinges may also become misaligned due to wear, creating a gap where the sash meets frame. If they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to get them re-aligned. In addition, the interlock could be disaligned. It is located on the hinge side and might require to be cleaned. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace them.

The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and let air escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will reduce the risk of draughts.

The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. They can help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!

With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a life span and eventually, they will reach a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. So, if you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.