Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a fantastic option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They don't decay or rust as aluminum and timber.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the replacement is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers in order to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.
It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your property until a professional arrives to repair the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, since it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sliding. A sagging uPVC windows could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It is crucial to act when you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.
To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can access the frame. With an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and verify the fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as fast as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.
uPVC handles can also loosen up. Often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test fit. The joint at the corner of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or is missing.
This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a new layer can be put on. It is important to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.
Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious instances, you might have to consider replacing the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the house.
It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. It is also possible to be repaired by an uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens with the breeze. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be done within a few minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It is very easy to change the hinges on a window however it is easier if someone helps you to hold the frame.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.
The problem can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or by a poor 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 suggestions.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to operate and close more smoothly. It can also lower the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a year. window repair near me and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which can cause a gap to form where the sash joins the frame. If they are beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window and can also become misaligned, again it may be feasible to give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce draughts.
One of the most effective methods to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some sort of filler and can be placed on the windowsill on top. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repair, your upvc windows will continue to provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be cheaper to replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window it is recommended to speak with an expert as soon as possible.