Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent 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.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, which can make it very hazardous and possibly 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 generally fit into old frames very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and Window Repairs replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall onto the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.

It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will stop water and drafts from entering your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is substantial, you may need to consider security screens that includes windows. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues like sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, window repairs draughts and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you discover that your upvc window repairs near me windows are sagging.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close your window and verify the an appropriate fit. If you are happy with the size of the window, tighten the screws to secure them in the right position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loosen. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's important to take action. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs (Click at Lix 7) you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the house.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely the problem is with the seal rather than the frame. Again this can easily be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it blows open with a breeze. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they can wear down over time. It is very easy to change a window hinge however it is simpler if you have someone to help you hold the frame.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

The problem can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or a faulty installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photo via our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.

It is also crucial to grease the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal method to accomplish this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window operate and close more smoothly. It can also reduce the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this can cause a gap to form where the sash joins the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but if they are beyond repair it may be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it may be possible to give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.

The next common reason for draughts is window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through the gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce the possibility of draughts.

Another, and most effective methods to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be positioned on top of your windowsill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually get worn out and it could be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.