Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like aluminum or timber.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into old frames very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case you'll need to locate some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit properly into the frame of the window.
Wearing double glazing Farnborough and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.
It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the distance between the window and the door is significant, you may prefer a security screen that also has windows. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash window. As time passes, they may be affected by a variety of issues such as sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from worsening.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can get at the frame. Then, remove both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in position.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to lose their tightness. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles could also loosen. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. You'll first need to close the window and then perform an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to act if you wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature within your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or is missing.
This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be put on. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and could decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.
Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might have to consider replacing the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the problem is with the seal rather than the frame. A uPVC specialist can 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 loose and open with ease it could be hinges that are at the fault. They can be repaired by any DIYer who is skilled 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 have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. It's easy to replace a hinge 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 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 with the hinges on windows could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular way or due to improper installation in the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often resolve the problem. We are always happy to give assistance.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This should be done at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, causing an opening where the sash and frame meet. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, can also become misaligned, again it may be feasible to give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to stop draughts. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce the risk of draughts.
The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be placed over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window, it's best to consult a professional immediately.