Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They do not rot or rust like aluminum and timber.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.
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 very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good working order.
For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. However, if windows with double panes are secured by internal beading it will be more difficult to get rid of the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation you’ll need to locate some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the window frame.
If you plan to attempt to remove the glass panes yourself it is crucial to wear the appropriate safety equipment that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and eye protection. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.
It’s a great idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using the security door with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable, UPVC window repairs energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could be affected by a variety of issues such as sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It is crucial to act when you notice your upvc window repairs (in the know) windows are sliding.
Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you’ll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. With a screwdriver, you can unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you’ve repositioned the hinges, close your window and test it for fit. If you are happy with the fit of the window replacement near me, tighten the screws to hold them in place.
If you aren’t able to move the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out and cause their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it’s important to replace the seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles may also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it can be due to the handle mechanism getting worn out. It’s fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. You’ll first need to close the window and perform an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn’t, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
If you’re waking up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it’s crucial to take action. The leaks of water from windows do are not just a cause for degradation of your home’s structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature within your home. The most common reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame has been damaged or is missing.
This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer can be applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should avoid ‘over-caulking’. This will make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might have to consider replacing the window.
Other indicators of water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or slack and blow open in a breeze It could be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be done within a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. It’s very simple to change the hinges on a window, but it’s easier if someone helps you to hold the frame.
Check that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.
The problem can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.
It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since 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, this will cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. Second, the interlock can also become unbalanced. This is located on the hinge side and might require to be cleaned. In some instances it might be necessary to replace these.
The next most common reason for draughts are the window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures, and also reduce the risk of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce drafts is to use an draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric that are filled with some kind of filler. They can be put on the windowsill on top. They can help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!
With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to recognise that all windows have a life span and there may come a point where it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you have any problems with your upvc window doctor near me, it’s best to consult a professional as soon as possible.