Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't corrosion or rot.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will reduce repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double pane windows that are anchored by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case, you will need to locate some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.
It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will prevent drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional is able to fix the window. This also serves as an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the distance between the window and the door is significant, you may want to use an alarm system that includes windows. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. Over time, they can develop a number of problems such as sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from getting worse.
Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sagging. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once window repairs near me 've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws until they remain in place.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry which causes their tightness to decrease. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles can also become loose. Most often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and perform an initial fitting. The corners of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.
3. Water Leaks
It is essential to act if you awake each day to find mouldy walls and wet floors. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This can make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes do not have debris in them and ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly 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 under conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or loose and open in a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace hinges in just a few minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame in place.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening 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 by opening the window incorrectly or a faulty installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a picture on our website. We will be happy to give you suggestions.
It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great method of doing this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the risk of a window sticking and help prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by different factors. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. They can be repaired by giving them good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it may be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window and can also become misaligned, again it may be possible to just give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to get them replaced.
The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time, and allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce the possibility of draughts.
One of the most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using an draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a type of filler. They can be placed on top of your windowsill. These will help to block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!
With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your upvc window, it's best to consult an expert immediately.