10 Things Everybody Has To Say About Repairs To Upvc Windows Repairs To Upvc Windows
10 Things Everybody Has To Say About Repairs To Upvc Windows Repairs To Upvc Windows
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. They don't rot or rust like aluminum or timber.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause serious damage to your home and 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 generally fit into frames of the past easily. However when windows with double panes are anchored by internal beading it will be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.
If you plan to attempt to remove the window panes yourself it is important to wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves that are thick and protective eyewear. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric and not on the floor, where they could be trampled.
It's a good idea to seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap between the window and the door is large, you might need to consider a security screen that also includes a window. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a cost-effective, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are sagging.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows to reach the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close your window and check for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in position.
If you aren't able to move the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as fast as possible so that your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.
uPVC handles may also loosen. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The corner joints of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
It is essential to act if you get up each morning to find mouldy walls and wet floors. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home, and impact your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, old caulking may have to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This will make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed properly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have 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 wall near the window. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or slack and open with ease it could be hinges at the fault. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually completed in just a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have 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 a window hinge, but it's easier if someone else helps you hold the frame.
Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the correct direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.
The issue can be caused either by opening the window improperly or due to a poor installation in the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often resolve the problem. We are always happy to provide advice.
Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window open and close more easily. It can also reduce the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this will cause a gap to form where the sash joins the frame. If they are beyond repair, it may be required to realign them. The interlock may also become unbalanced. It is located on the hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to here replace the hinges.
The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce the possibility of draughts.
The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach a point where it is more efficient to replace them than repair them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.