Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. They don’t decay or rust as aluminum or timber.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window replacement is broken it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will generally fit within the old frame very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation you’ll need locate some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.
If you’re planning attempt to remove the window panes by yourself it is crucial to wear the proper safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and eye protection. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled under.
It’s a good idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is large, you might think about the security door with an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost energy-efficient, uPVC repair durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues such as sagging. A window that isn’t properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It’s important to take action as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you’ll need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. Then, using the screwdriver, you’ll be able to take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to hold them in the right position.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it’s important to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles may also become loose. This is typically caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It’s fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you’ll need to shut the window and then perform an initial fitting. The joint at the corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn’t then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original position.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a simple fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who is competent. Based on the severity of the problem the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer of caulk can be put on. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
It is crucial to make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.
If the leakage occurs between the double glazing-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is with the seal than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens with an ease. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.
Like all mechanical parts, hinges can be damaged over time. Changing a window hinge is an easy procedure, but it is simpler when you have a person to help hold the frame up.
Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.
Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain manner or because of improper installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photo on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.
It is also important to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a few various factors. The hinges can also become misaligned due to wear, which can cause gaps where the sash and frame meet. These can be easily repaired by giving them thorough clean, however when they’re beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, can also become misaligned, again it is possible to give them a thorough clean, however in some instances it could be necessary to have them replaced.
The second most frequent reason for draughts is window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.
The last way to reduce draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. These will help to block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!
With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc window, it’s best to consult a professional as soon as you can.