How To Fix PVC windows.

Many people having previously bought double glazing may have broken parts or wear and tear after years of over use or lack of regular maintenance. 

To maintain PVC windows is important as it will prevent any further expensive outlays for minor breakages down the line. 

Spray oiling all moving parts and including hinges and shoot bolts, along with the entire underside of the openers where the small cams sit. these locate in to the window keeps on closing the window. These all need spraying as these are the first parts to seize up. With windows left open it allows the elements to attack the metal moving parts.

The most common part of a PVC window that fails is the double glazed unit that sits inside the window. This is not an easy repair for a novice to complete. It will take an accurate measure in width depth and thickness. It will also take an expert and their tools to remove and install , so its an idea to leave this to the experts.

It is easy to replace a broken handle which is one of the most common failures to a PVC window. These can be bought at PVC outlets and DIY stores.The video below demonstrates the ease of change. Most window handles should fit another regardless of age as the spacings between the fixing screws are the same. This is not the case with door handles as the spacings between the screws and the handle spindle differ a lot from brand to brand. 

The other major flaw in many windows is the silicone seals internally and externally. It is important to keep up on any gaps that appear due to the PVC window frame expanding and contracting throughout the day. Firstly remove the entire run of the silicone and clean off with a PVC solvent or similar solution. Use the best silicone you can afford and be advised by the DIY shop. It may be more beneficial to use decorators caulk internally as it easy to paint over. There is a step by step guide to silicone sealing below. 

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Southport Doors & Double Glazing
Email us at     info@southportdoors.com 
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Do PVC Window Handles Really Need Key Locks?

No matter which brand of PVC window you choose to opt for,  and no matter who is fabricating the windows whether it be a mass producer or a small outfit who operates locally chances are that there will be key locks on the handles.

With all the greatest intentions of breaking into a modern second generation windows sash it would be very difficult to achieve, if not impossible.

As long as it is a high specification window and it incorporates a composite multipoint locking mechanism using a combination of roller cams and shoot bolts , once located and fully closed down it is not able to be manipulated. In fact it is virtually impossible to even gain a view of the locking points to start attempting a break in.

The fact is that most people don't actually use them through either giving up trying to find the keys all the time or the fact that they don't want to have a panic when trying to escape in the  event of a fire.

So why the key locks ?


Peace of mind or insurance purposes.?


Many customers and secure minded home owners like the peace of mind that the handle is locked and that they have done everything possible within their simple day to day routine of securing their home.

The reality is that the handle locks are usually the first part of the handle to give way. 

The idea of a push button to open the window handle and an automatic click of the button to indicate a locked window replaces the old opposite style of pushing to lock when closed.

Ultimately these replaced the old cock spur handles on the very early PVC windows in the late 80's early 90's.

Some thoughts are that they will get a reduction in home insurance because they state to the windows have locks on them. 

But this came around first when old timber windows were very easy to break in to and added security bolts and key locks were introduced.

Insurance companies now class the majority of windows to have a secure multipoint locking systems as the majority of windows have been upgraded somehow since the the late 80's even in aluminium windows.So where is the benefit ? some rare insurance policies may mention it brings a small discount but the size is minimal.

There is an argument for someone breaking the glass of a sash and pulling the handle open, but breaking glass on windows isn't a method burglars prefer these days as DNA and threads off clothing is evidence. And with it being a very noisy technique and difficult to break a double glazed unit without causing cuts due to its construction and the way in which they are held and stuck together.

It just seems a bit strange that the part of the window handle that gives up first and the part that is not necessarily covered for 10 years is still incorporated into the window. Most manufacturers only giving 12 months as standard. Is this a service call out for replacements we really need considering the amount of window handles being installed ?

If it doesn't add security value or financial benefits or even an operational advantage in using them, why do we still have them ?


Company information

More technical information on varying types of doors, windows and conservatories can be found here as we have been collecting knowledge and giving the professional finish for 23 years. Contact us or browse our website @    Southport Doors & Double Glazing

Interesting links:

New Rockdoors | PVC windows  | ultimate conservatories | high security door products 

More advice and posts on :

What is PVC ? and what does it stand for ?

combating condensation

Tips on how to re seal your own windows and get a professional guide

The professional view on how to sell your house and what areas to address

What benefits are there with PVC windows

Are the locks secure in your doors? check this post to see what we mean