Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They don’t get rotten or rusty like timber and aluminum.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window has been damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and typically fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case you’ll need to find some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit properly into the frame of the window.
If you’re planning attempt to remove the glass panes yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment such as gloves that are thick and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor, where they could be trampled.
Once the glass is removed, it’s a good idea to cover the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from entering the property until a professional can come out and fix the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window, since it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective, uPVC window repairs durable and uPVC window repairs energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues, including sliding. A sagging window in uPVC can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It’s important to take action as soon as you notice your uPVC windows are falling down.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you’ll have to open the window to access the frame. With the screwdriver, you’ll be able to unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you’re satisfied with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to hold them in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to lose tightness. If this happens, it’s crucial to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and draught-proof.
uPVC handles may also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. It’s relatively easy to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you’ll need to close the window doctor and perform a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn’t then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
It is essential to take action if you wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and wet floors. Windows that leak water do can not only cause destruction of your home’s structure but also undermine your efforts to regulate 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 a simple fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Based on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up may need to be removed before a new layer of caulk can be applied. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should avoid the temptation to «over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.
It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more severe cases, you may need 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. This fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to note that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows, it’s more likely to be a problem 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
Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it blows open with the breeze. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is an easy process but it can be easier to do when you have a person to help you hold the frame up.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the correct direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.
The issue can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or by a poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to provide advice.
It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. 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. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also reduce the risk of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. Ideally, you should do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by various factors. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this will cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. If they are beyond repair, it may be required to realign them. The interlock may also become unbalanced. This happens on the hinge’s side and may need to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace these.
These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen the risk of draughts.
The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be placed over your window sill. They can help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!
Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security in your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them than to repair them. So, if you’re having issues with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.