Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will reduce repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good condition.
For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However If you have double pane windows that are secured by internal beading it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this instance it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to help the new pane fit into the window frame.
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 prior to when you begin working on the glass so that any shards fall onto the fabric instead of onto the floor, where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.
It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access to your home. If the distance between the window and the door is substantial, you may need to consider an alarm system that has a window. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. As time passes, they may develop a number of problems that include sagging. A sagging uPVC windows can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are sliding.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows to get at the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they stay in the right place.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, causing them to loosen. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as possible so that your uPVC windows are waterproof and draught-proof.
UPVC handles can also loosen. Most often, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform an experiment fit. The joint at the corner of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
It is essential to take action if get up each morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the destruction of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a simple fix that can be completed by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid 'over-caulking'. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.
It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed properly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.
Other indicators of water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.
It is also important to remember that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. This can be easily corrected by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or loose and open in a breeze, it may be hinges at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.
Most households 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. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process, but it's easier with someone else to help hold the frame up.
Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.
Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be more than happy to give you suggestions.
Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to operate and close more smoothly. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, creating a gap where the sash and frame meet. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them realigned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it may be possible to just give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to have these replaced.
These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will lessen the possibility of draughts.
Another, and most effective ways to cut down on the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a type of filler. window repair can be placed on top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it is more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.