The 10 Scariest Things About Repairs To Upvc Windows
repairs to upvc windows (visit this hyperlink)
uPVC is a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to get rusty or decay.
It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will help avoid unnecessary repair a window costs and increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good working order.
For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the replacement will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation, it is necessary to buy plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. 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 and could be trampled under.
Once the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional can come out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might think about a security door that has an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they can suffer from a variety of issues like sagging. A sagging uPVC windows can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from becoming worse.
To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. Then, remove both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they stay in the right place.
If you can't reposition the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity over time, which causes them to loose their elasticity. 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 can also loosen up. This is typically caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can also be due to the mechanism of the handle wears out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test fit. The corner joints of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home, and impact your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame has been damaged or is missing.
It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Based on the severity of the problem the old caulking may require removal before a fresh layer is applied. It is essential to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to apply too much caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.
It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed properly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme cases, you may need to replace the window repairing.
Other signs of long-term water leakage are sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. It is also possible to be fixed by an uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and blow open in a breeze, it may be hinges at the fault. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can usually be done within a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. It is essentially a simple process but it can be easier when you have a person to assist in holding the frame up.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.
The problem can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or by a poor installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a picture via our website and we will be pleased to offer you advice.
Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This should be done at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by different things. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which will cause an opening to appear between the sash and the frame. If they are beyond repair upvc door, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. In addition, the interlock could be disaligned. It is located on the hinge side and could require to be cleaned. In some cases it is possible to replace them.
These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce draughts.
Another method of reducing 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 repair near sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult an expert as soon as you can.