15 Top Pinterest Boards Of All Time About Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they do not corrosion or rot.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will reduce repair costs and improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the replacement is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double glazing-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation, you will need to find some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trampled on and cause further damage.

Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from entering the home until a professional comes out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access to your home. If the distance between the door and the window is substantial, you may prefer a security screen that also has an opening. This will give you the best of both.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues such as sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sliding. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can access the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to hold them in the right position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to lose their tightness. It is important 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 up. This is typically caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test fit. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial to take action if awake each day to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also impact your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or not present.

This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, old caulking may need to be removed. It is important to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and could decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is crucial to make sure that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan has been angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.

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

It is also important to remember that if the leak is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

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

Like any mechanical component hinges are prone to be damaged over time. It's easy to change the hinges on a window but it's much simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame.

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

The issue could be caused by opening the window improperly or due to a poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are happy to offer assistance.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. The ideal time to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different causes. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it may be feasible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

The second most frequent reason for draughts is window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to cut down on draughts is by using a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes that are filled with some sort of filler and can be put on the windowsill on top. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a bit of regular maintenance and repair, your upvc windows will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you're experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's best to seek professional assistance immediately.