Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not rust or rot.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.
For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However, if you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the old panes and put in new ones. In this case, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.
If you are going attempt to remove the window panes by yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled.
It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is substantial, you may want to use an alarm system that has a window. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they are susceptible to a range of problems including sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's crucial to act fast to prevent the problem from worsening.
Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sagging. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can access the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have repositioned your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to secure them in the right position.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out and cause them to lose tightness. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles may also become loose. This is typically caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to shut the window and then perform a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
If you're waking up to more info wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it's crucial to take action. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degradation 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 damaged or missing sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be completed by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may need to be removed before a new layer can be put on. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This can make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also that the sill pan is properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are another sign of water leakage. The fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window, it is more likely that the problem is related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with the breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace hinges in just a few minutes.
Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they will wear out over time. The process of replacing more info a hinge check here on a window is an easy process, but it's easier with someone else to help you hold the frame in place.
Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way check here the window should open.
The issue could be caused by opening the window incorrectly or a faulty installation in the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often resolve the problem. We are always happy to provide suggestions.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great method of doing this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the chance of windows sticking and help prevent corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be unbalanced. This happens on the hinge side and may need to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace them.
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 the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce the risk of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to cut down on drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes upvc windows repairs near me which are filled with a sort of filler and can be placed on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security in your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a life span and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than repair them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window, it's best to consult an expert as soon as you can.