10 Websites To Aid You To Become An Expert In Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC WindowsuPVC is an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. They don't rot or rust like timber and aluminum.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace and will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass to ensure that any shards fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.
It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your property until a professional arrives to repair the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window, since it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you notice your uPVC windows are sagging.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have repositioned your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to keep them in place.
If you aren't able to move the hinges you may need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to lose tightness. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.
UPVC handles can also become loose. Often it 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 easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. You'll first need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. 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 or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to take action if get up each morning to find a smoky wall and wet floors. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Depending on how severe the issue is, old caulking might 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 essential to ensure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you might have to consider replacing the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to note that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges may be to blame when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in the breeze. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix the hinges in a matter of 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. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process but it can be simpler if you have someone to assist in holding the frame up.
It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.
The problem can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or due to a poor installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a picture via our website and we will be happy to give you advice.
It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges regularly. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window operate and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges, also due to wear and tear can become misaligned, here this will cause an opening to appear where the sash joins the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. The interlock may be misaligned. This is located on the hinge's side, and might require to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.
The next common reason for draughts are the window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to cut down on draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with some sort of filler and can be positioned on the windowsill on top. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach the point when it's more economical to replace them than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc it is recommended to speak with a professional immediately.