Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they are not susceptible to rust or rot.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will reduce repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and may even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good working order.
Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and will usually fit into the old frames very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance, you will need to locate some plastic spacers that aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor, where they could be trampled.
It's a good idea to seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your property until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you might want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash window. As time passes, they may be affected by a variety of issues that include sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action when you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. With an screwdriver, take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having moved your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they stay in the right place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as soon as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.
UPVC handles can also become loose. This is typically caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. The first step is to close the window and then perform an experiment to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to take action if get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Windows that leak water do are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up may require removal before a new layer of caulk can be put on. It is important to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and that the sill pan is properly angled to allow the water to drain from the
window repair near me. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.
Other indicators of long-term water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or loose and open in a breeze It could be hinges that are at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.
Like all mechanical parts hinges will be damaged over time. Changing a
Window Repair hinge is essentially a simple process, but it's easier when you have a person to assist in holding the frame in place.
It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the correct direction. This can be done by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.
The problem with the hinges on windows could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or
Window Repair by poor
window repair installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photo on our website. We will be happy to give you suggestions.
It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great way to do 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 reduce the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. The ideal time to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they could damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which can cause an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them a good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, may also become misaligned, again it may be possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.
The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time and let air escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the possibility of draughts.
One of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be put on the windowsill on top. These will help to block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!
With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as you can.