Repairs To Upvc Windows: What Nobody Is Talking About
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like timber and aluminum.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good condition.
For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the replacement will usually fit inside the old frame very 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 case you'll need to source some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.
If you plan to attempt to remove the window panes by yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor and could be trampled under.
It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your home until a professional comes out to repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is large, you might prefer a security screen that also has windows. 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 sash windows. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues such as sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you find that your upvc window repair window is beginning to lose its shape, it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from becoming worse.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. With an screwdriver, remove the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they stay in place.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and secure from draughts.
uPVC handles may also loosen up. Most often, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose upvc window repair near me handle. First, you'll need to shut the window and perform an experiment fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it does not then you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then turn the mechanism to position.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it is important that you take action. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the destruction of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a fresh layer is applied. It is essential to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and reduce the efficiency of your energy.
Check that any drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.
Other indicators of water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window, it is more likely the problem is with the seal than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be at fault if your uPVC window is difficult to open or it blows open with a breeze. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually done within a few minutes.
Like all mechanical parts hinges are prone to wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier if you have someone to help hold the frame up.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.
The problem can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or by a poor installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo on our website. We will be happy to give you suggestions.
It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which can cause a gap to form between the sash and the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be required to realign them. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, can also become misaligned, again it may be possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to have these replaced.
The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help keep draughts at bay. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glasses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.
Another method of reducing drafts effectively 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 out cold air.
Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is essential to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it could be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.