Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace them, and the replacement will generally fit within the old frame very easily. If you have
double glazed window repairs near Me-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to help the new pane fit into the window frame.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass, so that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they can be trampled on and cause further damage.
Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to stop water and drafts from getting into the property until a professional is able to come out and repair the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is significant, you may want to use an alarm system that has an opening. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc is a long-lasting energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.
Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sagging. First, you'll need to open the windows to get at the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws until they remain in place.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.
uPVC handles can also loosen up. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It's relatively easy to repair a loose
upvc window repair near me handle. First, you'll need close your window and do a test fit. The corner joints of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, turn the mechanism back into place.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how severe the problem is, the old caulking may have to be removed. It is essential to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them and 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 other signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the home.
It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily repaired by an uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and blow open with a breeze It could be the hinges that are at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace hinges in just a few minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they can wear down over time. It's easy to change the hinges on a window, but it's easier if someone else helps you hold the frame.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the right direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should be opened.
Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or by improper installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photo through our website and we will be pleased to offer you advice.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window open and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by different things. The hinges may also become disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause a gap between the frame and sash. If they are beyond repair, it could be required to realign them. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, may also become misaligned, again it may be possible to just give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.
The next most common reason for draughts is window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and decrease draughts.
One of the most effective methods to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes that are filled with some type of filler. They can be placed on top of your windowsill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
With a little maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will provide excellent security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually get worn out and it may be more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.