Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, Double glazing repairs St Albans they do not corrosion or rot.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. If windows with double glazing Waltham Cross panes are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this case, you will need to source some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the window frame.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional is able to repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues that include sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act when you notice your uPVC windows are sliding.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sagging. To do this, you'll need open the window to access the frame. Then, remove both the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fit. If you are happy with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to keep them in the right position.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.

uPVC handles could also become loose. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. You'll first need to close the window and perform an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then return the mechanism to its original position.

3. Water Leaks

It is important to take action if wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is a fairly simple fix that can be completed by any competent DIYer. Based on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a new layer can be put on. It is important to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.

Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.

Other signs of long-term water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the home.

If the leakage is occurring between the double glazing repairs St Albans-glazed window, it is more likely the issue is with the seal than the frame. Again this can easily be repaired by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or loose and blow open with a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be done within a few minutes.

Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. It's very simple to change a window hinge however it is easier if someone else helps you to hold the frame.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this shows which way the window should open.

The problem can be caused either by opening the window improperly or by a poor installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often resolve the problem. We are always happy to give advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is also necessary. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We suggest using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to open and close more easily. It can also lower the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by several different factors. The hinges, also due to wear and tear may become displaced, which will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it's possible to give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.

Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be put on top of your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

Your windows made of upvc will remain a great source of insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it may be more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.