5 Laws Anybody Working In Repairs To Upvc Windows Should Know

Repairs to uPVC Windows

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

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the replacement is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. However If you have double pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the existing panes and install new ones. In this case, you will need to find some plastic spacers that aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the window repairs frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the home until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the distance between the window and the door is large, you might want to use a security screen that also has a window. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging uPVC window could cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from becoming worse.

To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and test it for fitting. If you are happy with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to secure them in place.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it could be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need close the window and then perform a test to ensure that it fits. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into position.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to take action if wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. The leaks of water from windows do are not just a cause for destruction of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. The most common reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or is missing.

This is a simple fix that can be completed by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on how severe the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.

It is important to check that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.

It is also important to remember that if the leak originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame if your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens with the breeze. Any competent DIYer can replace hinges in just a few minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they will wear out 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.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.

Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain way or due to improper installation in the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are always happy to provide assistance.

It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated on a regular basis. 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 also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which can cause an opening to appear where the sash meets the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, can also become misaligned, again it's possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.

The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Another alternative is to replace the window repair with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.

Lastly, one of the most effective ways to cut down on draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric that are filled with some type of filler. They can be positioned on top of your windowsill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!

Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it may be more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult a professional immediately.