The Best Advice You Could Ever Receive On Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is broken it could cause a large amount of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good working order.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they typically fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case, you will need to find some plastic spacers that assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.
If you plan attempt to remove the window panes yourself, it is essential to wear appropriate safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and eye protection. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.
After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to block drafts and water from entering the home until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. It also acts as an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is substantial, you may need to consider security screens that includes a window. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a cost-effective energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of problems including sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's important to take action when you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.
Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sliding. You'll first need to open the windows to get at the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After Oldham double glazing repair 've repositioned the hinges, close your window and check for an appropriate fit. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loose their elasticity. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles may also loosen. Often it is due to screws that have come 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. The first step is to close the window and perform an initial test to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it's crucial to take action. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is an easy fix that can be completed by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This can make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
It is important to check that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace the window.
Other indicators of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. Again this can easily be fixed by an uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with the breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace hinges in just a few minutes.
Like any mechanical part, hinges can wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier with someone else to help hold the frame up.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should open.
The problem can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are more than happy to offer advice.
It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window open and close more easily. It also helps prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a few different factors. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause a gap between the frame and sash. This can be easily repaired by giving them a good clean, but if they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it is possible to just give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen the risk of draughts.
Another, and most effective ways to cut down on drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are typically made of fabric filled with some kind of filler. They can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it is cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult an expert immediately.