Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to rust or rot.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, making it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good shape.
For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the old frame very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation you'll need to find some plastic spacers that will help the new pane to fit properly into the frame of the window.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall onto the fabric and not on the floor, where they could be trampled.
Once the glass has been removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from entering the property until a professional is able to come out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap is 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 a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. Over time, they can develop a variety of issues such as sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from becoming worse.
Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window to get to the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, shut your window and test it for fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in position.
If you can't reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes their tightness to decrease. It is crucial to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
window repair near me can also become loose. This is typically caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close your window and do an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joints at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it isn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Windows that leak water do can not only cause destruction of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a new layer can be put on. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must be careful not to over-caulk. This can make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
It is important to check that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.
Other indicators of water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.
If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass it is more likely the issue is related to the seal, not the frame. It is also possible to be fixed by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or slack and open in a breeze it could be the hinges that are at fault. They can be repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and are usually completed in just a few minutes.
Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is simpler if you have someone to assist in holding the frame up.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the right direction. This can be done by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates 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 due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to provide advice.
It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to operate and close more easily. It can also reduce the chance of windows sticking and help prevent corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause an opening between the frame and sash. These can be easily repaired by giving them good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, can also become misaligned, again it may be feasible to give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.
The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce the risk of draughts.
The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be hung over your window sill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!
With a little maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it may be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you're experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.
