Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't rust or rot.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good condition.
Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and will usually fit into the old frames very easily. If windows with double panes are joined by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation, you will need to find some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.
If you're planning to try to remove the window panes by yourself it is important to wear the appropriate safety equipment such as gloves that are thick and protective eyewear. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.
It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is substantial, you may prefer a security screen that also includes an opening. This will give you the best of both.
2. window repairs is a long-lasting, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act when you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.
Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window so that you can access the frame. After that, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having repositioned your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to hold them in the right position.
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, which causes them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.
uPVC handles could also loosen. This is typically caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it can be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test fitting. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any DIY expert. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a new layer can be applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.
Other indicators 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 damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily repaired by a 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 brittle to open, or are loose and open with ease It could be hinges at the fault. They can be repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and are usually done within a few minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is simpler with someone else to help you hold the frame in place.
It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are being opened 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.
Faulty window hinges could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a particular manner or because of improper installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are happy to provide suggestions.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to open and close more easily. It can also reduce the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a few different factors. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes a gap to form between the sash and the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them good cleaning, but in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could also become misaligned. It is located on the hinge side and could require to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or be damaged over time, allowing air to escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to stop draughts. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the risk of draughts.
Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to realize that all windows have a lifespan and they may reach the point when it's more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your upvc window you should consult an expert immediately.