Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They do not rot or rust like aluminum and timber.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good working order.
Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. However If you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation you'll need locate some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not on the floor and could be trampled.
It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. In time, they could develop a number of problems that include sliding. 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 important to act quickly to prevent the problem from becoming worse.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows to reach the frame. With an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, shut your window and test it for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window,
UPVC repair tighten the screws to hold them in place.
If you aren't able to move the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.
uPVC handles can also become loose. This is typically caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. Fortunately, it's easy to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to close the
window replacement and do a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to take action if you get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for destruction of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is an easy fix that can be completed by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on the severity of the issue is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it is time to
uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This will only make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.
It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely 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
If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or slack and blow open in a breeze, it may be hinges at the fault. They can be replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be done within a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is an easy procedure, but it is easier to do if you have someone to help hold the frame in place.
It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.
Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or due to poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are happy to offer advice.
Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great method to accomplish this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window operate and close more smoothly. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. The ideal time to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it may be required to realign them. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it's feasible to give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.
The second most frequent reason for draughts is window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time, and let air escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen the risk of draughts.
The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. They will help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!
Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach a point where it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult an expert immediately.