Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They do not get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will reduce repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they generally fit into old frames very easily. If windows with double panes are joined by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass, so that any fragments of glass fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor, where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.
It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your home until a professional is able to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using the security door with an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. In time, they could develop a number of problems such as sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's crucial to act fast to prevent the problem from becoming worse.
To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and check for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, tighten the screws to hold them in the right position.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes their tightness to decrease. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles can also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can also be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to shut the window and perform a test fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to act if you awake each day to find a smoky wall and wet floors. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may have to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This will make your window harder to clean and more info lower its energy efficiency.
It is important to check that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal than the frame. It is also possible to be repaired by an uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens with the breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace these in a matter of minutes.
Nearly every click here home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process but it can be easier to do if you have someone to help you hold the frame in place.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. This can be done by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this shows which way the window should open.
The problem can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give suggestions.
It is also essential to lubricate the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method to accomplish 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 here lower the possibility of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they could damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this will cause an opening to appear between the sash and the frame. They can be fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however when they're beyond check here repair, it could be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window and can also become misaligned, again it may be possible to give them more info a thorough clean, however 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. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce the risk of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to cut down on the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes filled with some sort of filler and can be positioned on top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a bit of regular maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach a point where it is more economical to replace them than fix them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as you can.