Repairs To Upvc Windows: What's The Only Thing Nobody Is Talking About
Repairs to uPVC WindowsuPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they don't corrosion or rot.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will help prevent unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home and even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to make sure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good condition.
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. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this case, you will need to source some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit correctly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.
Once the glass is removed and the glass is 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 is able to come out and repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might think about a security door that has an integrated window, since it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc is a long-lasting, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. In time, they could be affected by a variety of issues that include sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action immediately if you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window to get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and verify the fit. If you are happy with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to secure them in the right position.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.
uPVC handles could also loosen. Most often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. You'll first need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then turn the mechanism to position.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. Windows that leak water do are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a simple fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a new layer can be applied. It is important to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to 'over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.
It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you might need to consider 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 may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can 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 loose and blow open in a breeze, it may be hinges that are at fault. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be done within a few minutes.
Almost every household 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's easy to change a window hinge but it's much easier if someone else helps you hold the frame.
Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.
Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular manner or because of improper installation in the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give advice.
It is also crucial to grease the hinges regularly. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to here the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different causes. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which causes gaps to develop between the sash and the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it may be necessary to get them re-aligned. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it is feasible to give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.
The next common reason for draughts are the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity lenses. This will help control indoor temperatures and lessen the possibility of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security for your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a life span and there may come the point when it's more cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult an expert immediately.