Be On The Lookout For: How Repairs To Upvc Windows Is Gaining Ground And What You Can Do About It
Be On The Lookout For: How Repairs To Upvc Windows Is Gaining Ground And What You Can Do About It
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They do not get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.
It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause severe damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good working order.
Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace and typically fit into frames of the past easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation you'll need locate some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit perfectly into the window frame.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.
It's a great idea seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is significant, you may need to consider a security screen that also includes a window. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a cost-effective, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues, including sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are sagging.
Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sliding. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can access the frame. You can then unscrew both the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and check for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to secure them in the right position.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles could also loosen. This is typically caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could also be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need close the window and perform an experiment fit. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it isn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism to position.
3. Water Leaks
If you're waking up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and also hinder your ability to control the temperature of your home. The most common reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or is missing.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any DIY expert. Depending on the severity of the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This will make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them and that the sill pan is properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious cases, you may need to replace the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are also signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. 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 if your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens in a breeze. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in door repairs just a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window, but it's easier if someone else helps hold the frame.
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 the direction in which the window should open.
Faulty window hinges could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular manner or because of improper installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a picture via our website and we will be pleased to offer you suggestions.
Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window open and close more easily. It also decreases the possibility of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. This should be done at least every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by several different factors. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This can cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good clean, but if they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it may be possible to just give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.
The second most frequent reason for draughts is window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping can help prevent draughts. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce draughts.
Another method of reducing drafts effectively is to use a Draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!
Your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows eventually become worn out, and it could be cheaper to replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.