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What is the lifespan of uPVC?

around 20 years Typically lasting around 20 years, which can vary between 10-35 years depending on the quality and upkeep, if your uPVC windows were installed around 1999 it's likely that they could need replacing or at least repairing by now.

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Thanks to advances in technology, double glazed uPVC windows remain a firm favourite with house builders across the West Midlands and beyond. Typically lasting around 20 years, which can vary between 10-35 years depending on the quality and upkeep, if your uPVC windows were installed around 1999 it’s likely that they could need replacing or at least repairing by now.

How do you clean plastic windows?

Other than exceptional thermal efficiency, uPVC windows are incredibly low maintenance. However, they still require minor attention every now and then to retain their flawless aesthetics and optimum performance for as long as possible. So, unless your window installer has stated otherwise, a quick wipe down of the frames with a soft (non-abrasive) cloth and soapy water, combined with a quick spray of oil on the moving parts, will keep your windows in tip-top condition for as long as possible.

Can misted double glazed windows be repaired?

uPVC windows can sometimes become misted or ‘fogged’ due to seal failure, where in some instances the glass can simply be replaced instead of the whole window.

How do I know when my uPVC windows need replacing?

Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to repair double glazed uPVC windows. So, if any of these problems apply to your window frames it’s more than likely that they will need replacing;

Cracked, chipped or broken glass Water leaking through the frames Draughty frames

Can I fit uPVC windows in a conservation area?

As long as you have permitted development rights, there is no legislation that can legally prevent you from installing uPVC windows in your house – although local authorities prefer that the window style is in keeping with the style and period of the property, as well as the surrounding area. If your home is a listed building or restricted by an Article 4 Direction, your best bet is to consider timber effect windows from the Residence Collection. Perfectly replicating classic timber windows, this premium uPVC window system has been primarily designed and engineered to meet British conservation guidelines.

uPVC windows vs timber

Although authentic timber windows are naturally stunning, the downsides are not so appealing! Who has the time to regularly varnish and clean timber windows, in order to retain their instinctive charm? Vulnerable to insect infestations, timber windows also have a higher rate of double-glazed unit failure. In stark comparison, wood effect uPVC frames are incredibly weatherproof, low maintenance and will not rot or corrode either – which is why we choose Residence Collection windows over real timber windows any day.

High-performance, long-lasting uPVC windows

Offering a 10 year product and work guarantee on all of our high-quality home improvement products, get in touch to discuss your home improvement plans further or watch a few of our video testimonials to find out why savvy West Midland homeowners and landlords choose DW Windows.

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Why can't I lock my uPVC door?

Check for any blockages on the outside of the door, as well as the frame of the doorway. The door may engage a lock at multiple points, so be sure to check all locking points are clear. Also, make sure that nothing is caught on the bottom edge of the door.

uPVC door won't close

If your uPVC door won't close, it might be because the hinges need adjusting to align the door so it sits in the frame. This is a simple job that takes five minutes. Watch the video below to see how you can adjust the door so it will close.

uPVC door won't lock when closed

If your door won't lock when it's closed, the latch might not be catching or engaging. Test the spring mechanism in the door by opening the door and pressing the latch with your finger: If the latch springs out , it may be out of alignment or shifted slightly. , it may be out of alignment or shifted slightly. If the latch doesn't spring out, the springing mechanism may have failed and would need to be replaced.

A few other reasons this could happen are:

Fluctuations in temperature . Wipe a cloth soaked in warm water (in cold conditions) or cold water (in warm conditions) around the door to combat it expanding or contracting. . Wipe a cloth soaked in warm water (in cold conditions) or cold water (in warm conditions) around the door to combat it expanding or contracting. Dropped door. If the door is angled slightly, it would need to be levelled to ensure that it sits flush with the frame. If the door appears to be out of alignment, you can try to adjust the hinges to re-enagage the latch. Read how to adjust uPVC door hinges here.

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