10 Easy Ways To Figure Out Your Repairs To Upvc Windows
10 Easy Ways To Figure Out Your Repairs To Upvc Windows
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they don't get rusty or decay.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames that were previously in use very easily. However when you have double pane windows that are secured by internal beading it will be more difficult to get rid of the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor and could be trampled under.
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 property until a professional can come out and repair the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any criminals from getting into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is large, you might need to consider security screens that has windows. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. Over time, they can be affected by a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can reach the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges at the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've repositioned your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they stay in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles could also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to shut the window and do an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.
3. Water Leaks
If you're waking up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's crucial to take action. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by here a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix and should be undertaken 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 should avoid over-caulking. This will only make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Check that any drainage holes have no debris in them and that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace the window.
Other indicators of long-term water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to note that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens with the breeze. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually done within a few minutes.
Like any mechanical component, hinges can be damaged over time. It's easy to change the hinges on a window however it is easier if someone helps hold the frame.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should open.
The problem with the hinges on windows can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo on our website. We will be pleased to offer you advice.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window open and close more easily. It also decreases the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by several different factors. The hinges can also be misaligned due to wear, which can cause an opening between the frame and sash. If they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them realigned. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it is feasible to give them a thorough clean, however in some cases it might be necessary to have them replaced.
The seals may wear out or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help stop draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen 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 that can be hung over your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great 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 a point where it is more economical to replace them than repair them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.