Watch Out: How Repairs To Upvc Windows Is Taking Over And What To Do
Watch Out: How Repairs To Upvc Windows Is Taking Over And What To Do
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they don't get rusty or decay.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good condition.
Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.
Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to stop drafts and water from entering the home until a professional comes out and fix the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about the security door with an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from getting worse.
Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sliding. You'll first need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and test it for fit. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in the right 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, causing them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.
UPVC handles can also become loose. This is typically caused by screws that have become undone 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 handle. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism to position.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to take action if you wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks from windows can not only cause destruction of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you should avoid over-caulking. This will make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan has been angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.
Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be at fault if your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens with a breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.
Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they will wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple procedure, but it is simpler if you have someone to help hold the frame in place.
Verify that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this shows which way the window should open.
The problem with the hinges on windows could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or by improper installation in the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to provide suggestions.
It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a good way to do this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open here and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few various factors. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, creating a gap between the frame and sash. They can be repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. Second, the interlock can also become disaligned. It is located on the hinge's side, and may need to be cleaned. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace these.
These seals can wear down or get 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. which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes filled with some sort of filler and can be positioned on the windowsill on top. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
Your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window it is recommended to speak with an expert as soon as you can.