Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like aluminum and timber.
It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the replacement will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation you'll need to find some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.
If you're planning to try to remove the glass panes yourself, it is essential to wear appropriate safety gear, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall onto the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.
Once the glass has been removed and the glass is removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from entering the property until a professional comes out and repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the distance between the window and the door is significant, you may want to use a security screen that also has windows. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues, including sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It is crucial to act when 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 have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. After that, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to 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 you've repositioned your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in place.
If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes them to lose tightness. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close the window and perform a test fit. The corners of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use 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 every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the destruction of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may need 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 reduce its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to remember 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 sliding. window repair can be easily corrected by an uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or slack and blow open in a breeze it could be hinges that are at the fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually done within a few minutes.
Like all mechanical parts, hinges can be damaged over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process, but it's easier when you have a person to assist in holding the frame in place.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper 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 way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often resolve the problem. We are happy to provide suggestions.
It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by several different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which can cause gaps to develop between the sash and the frame. They can be fixed by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it may be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock may also become disaligned. This happens on the hinge's side, and may need to be cleaned. In some instances it is possible to replace the hinges.
The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and let air escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the possibility of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to cut down on the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be placed on the top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it is more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you're experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's best to seek professional assistance immediately.