Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. They don’t get rotten or rusty like timber and aluminum.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and also improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home, and could even be fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good working order.
For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame of the previous one easily. However, if you have double-pane windows that are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation you’ll need to locate some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit properly into the frame of the window.
If you plan to try to remove the window panes by yourself it is important to wear appropriate safety gear, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor and could be trampled under.
It’s a great idea to seal the gap after the glass is removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your home until a professional is able to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap is large, you might think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. In time, they could be affected by a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It is crucial to act when you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.
Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sliding. You’ll first need to open the windows to access the frame. With the screwdriver, you’ll be able to remove the top and bottom hinges 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, tighten the screws to ensure they remain in position.
If you aren’t able to move the hinges, you may require replacing the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it’s important to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism wearing out. Fortunately, it’s easy to fix the loose uPVC window handle yourself. The first step is to close the window and then perform a test to ensure that it fits. The joints at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn’t then you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to take action if you awake each day to find mouldy walls and wet floors. The leaks of water from windows do not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, upvc window repair near me window repair leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking may require removal before a new layer can be put on. It is important to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should avoid the temptation to “over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.
Check that any drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more severe situations, you may have to replace the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread across the house.
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 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
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or loose and open with a breeze it could be hinges that are at the fault. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier if you have someone to assist in holding the frame up.
Check that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this shows which way the window should open.
The issue could be caused either 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 through our website and we will be more than happy to give you suggestions.
It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. This can be accomplished 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. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges may also become unbalanced due to wear, which can cause gaps between the frame and sash. These can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could also become misaligned. This happens on the hinge side and may need to be cleaned. In some cases it might be necessary to replace these.
The next most common cause of draughts is the window repairs near me seals. These can become worn down or damaged over time and let air escape through the gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the possibility of draughts.
One of the most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be put on the windowsill on top. They will help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!
With a bit of regular maintenance and repair, your upvc windows will provide excellent security and insulation for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually get worn out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc you should consult a professional as soon as possible.