Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't corrosion or rot.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If windows with double panes are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
If you are going attempt to remove the glass panes yourself it is crucial to wear the proper safety gear, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.
It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a variety of issues such as sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act immediately if you realize that your uPVC windows are sagging.
To repair 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. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in the right place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry 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 waterproof and draught-proof.
UPVC handles can also become loose. Most often this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to shut the window and perform an initial fitting. The joints at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. The most common reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame has been damaged or not present.
This is a fairly simple fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This will only make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more severe cases, you may need to replace the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal than the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open with ease it could be hinges at the fault. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window but it's much simpler if you have someone to help 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.
Window hinges that aren't working properly could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or by poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo on our website. We will be pleased to offer you advice.
It is also important to grease the hinges on a regular basis. This can be accomplished 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 can make the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. window repairs should be done at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by various factors. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this can cause an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. If they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it is possible to give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to have these replaced.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen the risk of draughts.
One of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically made of fabric that are filled with some type of filler. They can be placed on top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
The windows made of upvc can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to recognize that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come an point at which it is more economical to replace them than repair them. So, if you're experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.