Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they are not susceptible to rust or rot.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are 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 old frame very easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this case, you will need to find some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass, so that any shards fall on the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.
It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to repair the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is large, you might prefer an alarm system that includes windows. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues like sagging. A sagging window in uPVC can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from becoming worse.
Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window which is sliding. First, you'll need to open the windows to access the frame. Then, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have moved your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to secure them in the right position.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles may also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it does not, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to act if you get up each morning to find a smoky wall and floors that are wet. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and also impact your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. The most common reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is damaged or not present.
This is a simple fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up may require removal before a new layer can be applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This will make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.
It is crucial to make sure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you might need to consider replacing the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The 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 the issue is with the seal than the frame. Again this can easily be corrected by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason if your uPVC window is difficult to open or it blows open with the breeze. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be done within a few minutes.
Like window repairs near me , hinges can wear out over time. It is very easy to change the hinges on a window but it's much easier if someone else helps you hold the frame.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.
The problem with the hinges on windows could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give advice.
It is also crucial to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great way to do this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to open and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause a gap where the sash and frame meet. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. Second, the interlock can be unbalanced. It is located on the hinge's side and may need to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.
The seals may wear out or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.
Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.