The 10 Scariest Things About Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they do not get rusty or decay.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will reduce repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they typically fit into old frames very easily. If you have double glazed window repairs near me-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need source some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor where they can be trampled on and cause further damage.
Once the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from entering the property until a professional comes out and fix the window. This also serves as an obstacle to stop intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you might want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window, since it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of problems including sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you discover that your upvc window repairs windows are falling down.
To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows to access the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close the window and test it for fit. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in the right place.
If you can't reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes them to loosen. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
UPVC handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. You'll first need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to act if you wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any DIY expert. Depending on the severity of the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is crucial to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk and then make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.
Check that any drainage holes do not have debris inside them and that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might need to consider replacing the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double glazed window repairs glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges may be to blame when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens in the breeze. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually done within a few minutes.
Like any mechanical component, hinges can be damaged over time. It is essentially a simple process, but it's simpler with someone else to assist in holding the frame in place.
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 which direction the window should be opened.
Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular way or by poor installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photo through our website and we will be happy to give you advice.
Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good way to do this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window open and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges can also be disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause a gap where the sash meets frame. If they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window repairs, can also become misaligned, again it's feasible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.
These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to prevent draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures, and also reduce the risk of draughts.
The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually get worn out and it may be more cost-effective to simply replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.