One Of The Biggest Mistakes That People Make With Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they do not corrosion or rot.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window has been damaged, it could cause a large amount of damage to your home, which can make it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good working order.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they typically fit into old frames very easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea 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 onto the floor, where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap is large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act immediately if you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and check for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to keep them in place.

If you can't reposition the hinges you may require replacing the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes their tightness to decrease. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

UPVC handles can also loosen. Often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's relatively easy to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need close your window and do an initial test to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corner of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial to take action if awake each day to find a smoky wall 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 damaged or not present.

This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a new layer can be applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.

It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more severe cases, you may need to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.

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

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with the breeze. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they can wear down over time. It is very easy to change a window hinge but it's much simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or due to poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a picture via our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.

It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great method of doing this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly window repairs makes the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the risk of a window sticking and help prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by a variety of different causes. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, creating gaps between the frame and sash. These can be easily fixed by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window and can also become misaligned, again it is possible to give them a clean but in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.

These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Installing high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to stop draughts. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!

Your windows made of upvc will keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance immediately.

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Pub: 07 Feb 2024 15:09 UTC
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