5 Myths About Repairs To Upvc Windows That You Should Avoid

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they do not get rusty or decay.

It is essential to clean and oil Upvc window repair windows and doors regularly. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the replacement will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading it will be more difficult to remove the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this instance, you will need to source some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

If you plan to attempt to remove the glass panes yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment such as gloves that are thick and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled.

It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your property until a professional is able to repair the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from getting into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is substantial, you may need to consider an alarm system that includes an opening. This will provide the best of both.

2. Sagging

uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. However, over time, they are susceptible to a range of problems including sliding. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are sliding.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll need open the window so that you can get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in place.

If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your upvc window repairs near me window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. Most often this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need close your window and do a test fit. The joints at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you awake to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to take action. Windows that leak water do are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is damaged or is missing.

This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. It is crucial to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and can reduce your energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes do not have debris in them and ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators of long-term water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the home.

It is also important to note that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily corrected by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or loose and blow open in a breeze, it may be the hinges that are at fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix these in a matter of minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges are prone to wear out over time. It is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier to do if you have someone to assist in holding the frame in place.

It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should open.

The problem can be caused by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be happy to give you suggestions.

It is also important to grease the hinges regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal method of doing this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. The ideal time to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts can be caused by different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this can cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. They can be repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be unbalanced. It is located on the hinge side and might require to be cleaned. In certain instances it might be necessary to replace them.

The seals may wear out or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glasses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.

The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach the point when it's more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc you should consult an expert as soon as you can.