Repairs To Upvc Windows: It’s Not As Expensive As You Think

Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good working order.

Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this case, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you begin working on the glass, so that any shards fall on the fabric rather than on the floor where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.

It’s a great idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, repairs preventing any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the distance between the door and the window sash repairs is large, you might need to consider a security screen that also has windows. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a number of problems, including sagging. A window that isn’t properly aligned 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 stop the issue from becoming worse.

To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you’ll have to open the window to get to the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after having relocated your hinges. If you’re happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may require replacing the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause their tightness to decrease. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

uPVC handles can also become loose. This is typically caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It’s fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. The first step is to close the window and then perform an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn’t then you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

If you’re waking up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains it’s crucial to take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home, repairs and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up may require removal before a new layer of caulk is applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

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 serious situations, you may have to replace the window.

Mold spots and rotted sills are also signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the problem is with the seal rather than the frame. It is also possible to be corrected by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or are loose and open with a breeze It could be hinges at fault. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and are usually completed in just a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple procedure, but it is simpler when you have a person to help hold the frame in place.

Check that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the correct direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.

The issue could be caused by opening the window improperly or a faulty installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a picture through our website and we will be more than happy to give you suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to open and close more easily. It can also reduce the chance of windows sticking and help prevent corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different factors. The hinges can also be misaligned due to wear, causing gaps between the frame and sash. If they are beyond repair, it might be required to realign them. In addition, the interlock could be unbalanced. It is located on the hinge’s side and might require to be cleaned. In some cases it is possible to replace them.

The next common 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 is a good way to prevent draughts. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and decrease draughts.

Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a Draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. They will help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!

The windows made of upvc can remain a great source of insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually get worn out and it could be cheaper to replace them than to repair them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window you should consult an expert as soon as you can.