17 Signs To Know If You Work With Repairs To Upvc Windows
17 Signs To Know If You Work With Repairs To Upvc Windows
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you're doing everything you can to keep your windows in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and will usually fit into the frames that were previously in use very easily. If windows with double panes are joined by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need find some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the frame of the window.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall on the fabric rather than 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 is removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional is able to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier, deterring any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is large, you might prefer a security screen that also includes windows. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, over time, they can suffer from a variety of problems including sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from getting worse.
Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window to access the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to 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 check for fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in the right place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause them to loosen. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as fast as possible so that your uPVC windows are waterproof and safe from drafts.
UPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it can be due to the handle mechanism wears out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to close your window and do a test to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. Water leaks from windows are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame has been damaged or is missing.
It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any skilled DIYer. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking may need to be removed. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and can reduce your energy efficiency.
It is important to check that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives under damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the home.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the problem is related to the seal, not the frame. This can be easily fixed by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack check here and open with ease It could be the hinges that are at the fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.
Like any mechanical component hinges will be damaged over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple procedure, but it is simpler when you have a person to assist in holding the frame up.
Check that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.
Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are more than happy to provide advice.
It is also important to grease the hinges regularly. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges, we recommend 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 possibility of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based fluids are not recommended since they will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear may become displaced, which will cause gaps to develop between the sash and the frame. If they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock may be disaligned. It is located on the hinge's side and could require to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.
The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to prevent draughts. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce the possibility of draughts.
Another method of reducing the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually get worn out and it is more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as you can.