Watch Out: How Repairs To Upvc Windows Is Taking Over And What We Can Do About It

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They don't get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as 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 important to make sure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this case you'll need to locate some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.

It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your property until a professional arrives to repair the window. This also serves as a barrier to prevent any intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a variety of issues, including sagging. A window that is sagging 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 prevent the problem from getting worse.

Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sagging. You'll first need to open the windows so you can reach the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to unscrew the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fitting. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they stay in position.

If you can't reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to lose tightness. It is essential to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close your window and do an initial test to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to act if you awake each day to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks from windows can not only cause destruction of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or is missing.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Based on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.

Check that any drainage holes do not have debris inside them and that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.


Other indicators of water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This mold thrives in damp environments and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.

It is also important to note that if the leak is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily 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 slack and blow open in a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can be completed in just a few minutes.

Like any mechanical component hinges are prone to wear out over time. It's very simple to replace a hinge on a window but it's much easier if someone else helps you to hold the frame.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.

The issue could be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or by a poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo via our website and we will be happy to give you advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to open and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they could damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different causes. First, the hinges due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. If they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can also become misaligned, again it's possible to give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.

These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to stop draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's best to seek professional assistance immediately.

Edit
Pub: 07 Feb 2024 05:08 UTC
Views: 12