17 Reasons To Not Not Ignore Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not get rusty or decay.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

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

For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one will generally fit within the frame of the previous one easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need to find some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

After the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to stop drafts and water from entering the home until a professional comes out and repair the window. This will also provide a barrier to prevent any criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they are susceptible to a range of issues like sagging. 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 important to act quickly to prevent the problem from worsening.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sliding. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can access the frame. Then, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close your window and test it for fit. If you are happy with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in the right position.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause them to lose tightness. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as fast as possible so that your uPVC windows are waterproof and safe from drafts.

UPVC handles can also loosen up. This is typically caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it could also be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and do an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and impact your ability 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 completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you may need to think about replacing the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are another sign of water leakage. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.

If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the issue is more related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be the reason if your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with a breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges 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, just like any mechanical component they will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is an easy process but it can be easier to do with someone else to help hold the frame up.

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

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a picture on our website. We will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a variety of various factors. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, causing a gap between the frame and sash. They can be repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it may be feasible to give them a clean but 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 will allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will lessen draughts.

The last way to reduce draughts effectively is by using a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be placed over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

With a little regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them than to repair them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc window repairs near me you should consult an expert immediately.