17 Signs Youre Working With Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to rust or rot.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will reduce repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to take the time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good repair.
For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the old frame very easily. However If windows with double panes are secured by internal beading it will be more difficult to remove the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation you'll need locate some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.
If you plan to try to remove the window panes by 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 start working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the cloth instead of onto the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.
Once the glass is removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional comes out and repair the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you might be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they can suffer from a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from worsening.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows to get at the frame. Then, remove both the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they remain in position.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles may also become loose. Often this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's a good thing that it's simple to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close your window and do an initial test fit. The joint at the corner of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn'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
It is crucial to act if you awake each day to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and also impact your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs , you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk and then make the area harder to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.
It is crucial to make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more severe cases, you may need to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives under damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the home.
If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the issue is related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be at fault for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens with an ease. They can be repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's easy to change a window hinge, but it's simpler if you have someone to help you hold the frame.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. This can be done 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 caused by improperly opening the window in a particular manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to provide advice.
Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a variety of different things. First, the hinges due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this can cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. They can be repaired by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be unbalanced. This happens on the hinge's side, and may need to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.
The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce the risk of draughts.
The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. They will help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!
The windows made of upvc can remain a great source of insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach the point when it's more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your upvc window it is recommended to speak with an expert immediately.