Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they don't corrosion or rot.
It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is important to make sure that your windows are in good working order.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into old frames very easily. If window repairs have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers in order to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
If you're planning to try to remove the glass panes yourself it is crucial to wear the proper safety gear, including thick gloves and eye protection. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled.
It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your property until a professional arrives to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap between the door and the window is substantial, you may want to use a security screen that also has a window. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they may be afflicted by a variety of problems including sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you notice your uPVC windows are falling down.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can reach the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have relocated your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in position.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes them to lose tightness. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to shut the window and do a test fitting. The corners of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to take action if wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and wet floors. The leaks of water from windows do are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or missing.
This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously may need to be removed before a fresh layer is applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them and ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. This mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges may be to blame if your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it blows open with a breeze. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually completed in just a few minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is simpler when you have a person to help hold the frame up.
It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.
The problem with the hinges on windows could be caused by improperly opening the window a certain way or by inadequate installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a picture on our website. We will be more than happy to give you suggestions.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window operate and close more smoothly. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. The ideal time to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. The hinges can also be disaligned as a result of wear, causing gaps where the sash and frame meet. These can be easily fixed by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it may be possible to give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or get damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be put on the top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a bit of regular maintenance and repair your windows made of upvc will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and there may come a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult an expert as soon as possible.