The Best Advice You Can Ever Get About Repairs To Upvc Windows
The Best Advice You Can Ever Get About Repairs To Upvc Windows
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. They do not get rotten or rusty like aluminum or timber.
It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you're doing everything you can to keep your windows in good shape.
For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace windows, and the new one is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. However when windows with double panes are held in place by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to get rid of the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation you'll need to find some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass so that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor, where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.
It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also provide a barrier to prevent any intruders from getting into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is substantial, you may want to use a security screen that also has windows. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may be affected by a variety of issues such as sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are sagging.
Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sagging. You'll first need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close your window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they stay in the right place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.
uPVC handles could also become loose. Often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to repair the loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close the window and then perform a test fit. The joint at the corner of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. The leaks of water through windows could 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 surrounding the frame is either damaged or is missing.
This is an easy fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on the severity of the issue 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 avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and can reduce the efficiency of your energy.
It is crucial to make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly window repair spread across the house.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window, it is more likely that the issue is related to the seal, not the frame. Again this can easily be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be at fault if your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it opens with an ease. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be done within a few minutes.
Most households 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. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process but it can be easier to do when you have a person to help hold the frame up.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the right direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.
The issue could be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photo via our website and we will be happy to give you advice.
It is also essential to ensure that the hinges are lubricated on a regular basis. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is an ideal method to accomplish this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window operate and close more easily. It can also lower the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which can cause gaps to develop between the sash and the frame. These can be easily fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but if they are beyond repair it may be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it is possible to just give them a clean but in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce the possibility of draughts.
Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be put on top of your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
The windows made of upvc can continue to provide excellent insulation and security in your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach an point at which it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.