Repairs to uPVC Windows
upvc window repairs near me windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not corrosion or rot.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home and even be fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and will usually fit into the frames of the past 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 help the new pane fit into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you begin working on the glass to ensure that any shards fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor where they can be trampled on and cause further damage.
It's a great idea tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap is large, you may think about a security door that has an integrated window, since it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.
To repair 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. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver, and then adjust 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, you can tighten the screws until they stay in the right place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to lose tightness. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.
uPVC handles may also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it can be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's relatively simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and then perform a test fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to take action if awake each day to find a smoky wall and wet floors. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also affect your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or missing.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may need to be removed before a new layer of caulk can be applied. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC
window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and can reduce the efficiency of your energy.
It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan has been angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. It is also possible to be corrected by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be at fault for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens in the breeze. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.
Like all mechanical parts, hinges can wear out over time. It is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame up.
It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. This can be done by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.
The issue could be caused by opening the window incorrectly or a faulty installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a picture on our website. We will be happy to give you advice.
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, such as 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. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by different factors. First, the hinges due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this can cause an opening to appear between the sash and the frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good clean, but if they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, may be misaligned. Again, it's feasible to give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to have these replaced.
The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce the risk of draughts.
Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be put on top of your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is essential to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it is more cost-effective to simply replace them instead of fixing them. If you encounter any issues with your Upvc window, it's best to consult an expert as soon as you can.