Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum or timber.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is broken it could cause a large amount of damage to your home, which can make it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one will generally fit within the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation, you will need to find some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.
Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the property until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, since it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time, they are susceptible to a range of problems including sagging. A sagging uPVC window could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It is crucial to act when you notice 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 to reach the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can take off 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 having repositioned your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws until they remain in the right place.
If you aren't able to move the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, causing them to lose their tightness. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles may also become loose. Often this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to repair the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The joint at the upvc windows repairs near me corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and also affect your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or missing.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Based replace windows near me on the severity of the issue the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer of caulk is applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. It is also possible to be fixed by an uPVC window here specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or slack and blow open with ease it could be hinges at fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix these in a matter of minutes.
Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. It is very easy to change the hinges on a window but it's much easier if someone helps you hold the frame.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges more info are open and closed in the right direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.
The issue could be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or a faulty installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often resolve the problem. We are happy to offer suggestions.
Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method of doing this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window open and close more easily. It also decreases the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. Ideally, you should do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as doors and window company near me they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window, can also become misaligned, again it may be possible to give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.
These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures, and also lessen draughts.
Another, and most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be positioned on top of your windowsill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!
With a little regular maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.