Coy Owsley спросил 8 месяцев назад
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they don’t rust or rot.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
For single pane windows it is fairly 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 remove the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation, you will need to find some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor and could be trampled.
It’s a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional comes out to repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in the security door with an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they can suffer from a variety of issues like sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it’s important to act quickly to prevent the problem from worsening.
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 reach the frame. With a screwdriver, you can unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you’ve repositioned the hinges, shut your window and check for an appropriate fit. If you are happy with the size of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it’s important to replace the seal as soon as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles could also loosen. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it can also be caused by the handle mechanism wears out. It’s fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you’ll need to close the window and perform an initial fitting. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it does not, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it’s crucial to take action. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for destruction of your home’s structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the old caulking might need to be removed before a new layer can be put on. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotted sills are other signs of water leakage. The mold thrives in damp environments and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, seals it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. It is also possible to be corrected 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 for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with the breeze. These are 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 have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they will wear out over time. It is very easy to change the hinges on a window however it is easier if someone else helps hold the frame.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should open.
The problem with the hinges on windows could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are always happy to provide suggestions.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We suggest using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the risk of a window repairs sticking and prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges may also become unbalanced due to wear, which can cause an opening between the frame and sash. If they’re beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. In addition, the interlock could be misaligned. This happens on the hinge side and might require to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace these.
These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glasses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.
The last way to reduce draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. These will help to 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 a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and there may come the point when it’s more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your upvc window you should consult an expert as soon as you can.