The 10 Scariest Things About Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they don't corrosion or rot.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is broken it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good condition.
Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they generally fit into frames of the past easily. However when windows with double panes are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation you'll need find some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.
After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the property until a professional can come out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window as it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc is a long-lasting energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash window. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues that include sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.
Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sagging. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to reach the frame. Then, remove both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they stay in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to lose their tightness. It is essential to replace your seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.
uPVC handles can also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could also be due to the handle mechanism wears out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close your window and do an experiment fit. The corner joints of the sash must be aligned 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're waking up to wet floors and damp walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home 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 issue is, old caulking may need to be removed. When it comes to repairing upvc doors repair upvc windows, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This will make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
Check that any drainage holes are free of debris in them and that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. This mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread throughout the house.
If the leakage is occurring between the double glazed windows repairs-glazed glass, it is more likely the issue is more with the seal than the frame. 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 stiff to open, or slack and open in a breeze It could be hinges that are at the fault. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.
Most households 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 is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier to do if you have someone to assist in holding the frame in place.
Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.
The issue can be caused either by opening the window improperly or by a poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are always happy to offer assistance.
Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method of doing this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window repairing easier to open and close. It can also reduce the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. This should be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which causes an opening to appear where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it may be feasible to give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.
The next common reason for draughts are the window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help prevent draughts. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce draughts.
Another, and most effective ways to cut down on draughts is by using a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be positioned on top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
The windows made of upvc can remain a great source of insulation and security for your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window, it's best to consult a professional as soon as you can.