Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum or timber.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause serious damage to your home and even be fatal. It is important to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to keep your windows in good repair.
For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. However, if you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this instance you'll need source some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.
It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent criminals 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 windows. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it is important to act swiftly to prevent the problem from becoming worse.
To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window to get to the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to secure them in place.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles could also loosen. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need close your window and do an initial test fit. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism into position.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, old caulking may need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This will make your window harder to clean and lower its window and door repairs energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to note that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and open with a breeze, it may be hinges at the fault. They can be replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be read more done within a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC window repairs windows that use hinges and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple procedure, but it is simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame up.
Check that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.
Window hinges that aren't working properly could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often solve the issue. We are happy to offer suggestions.
It is also important to grease the hinges regularly. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also lower the chance of windows sticking and help prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 upvc windows repairs near me and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges can also be disaligned as a result of wear, creating a gap between the frame and sash. If they are beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock may also become misaligned. This is located on the hinge's side and may need to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace these.
The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through the gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to stop draughts. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this read more will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce the possibility of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be placed on the top of your windowsill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
The windows made of upvc can continue to provide excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually become worn out, and it may be more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window, it's best to consult a professional as soon as possible.