Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a great choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. They do not rot or rust like aluminum and timber.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you're doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace and generally fit into frames of the past easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation you'll need source some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the window frame.
If you are going to try to remove the glass panes yourself, it is essential to wear the proper safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and protective eyewear. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric and not on the floor, where they could be trampled.
It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your home until a professional arrives to repair the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the gap between the window and the door is large, you might want to use security screens that has a window. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. As time passes, they may be affected by a variety of issues that include sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's crucial to act fast to stop the issue from becoming worse.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window to get to the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles may also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it could also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. It's relatively easy to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to shut the window and perform a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism into position.
3. Water Leaks
If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it is important that you take action. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This will make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes are free of debris in them and that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious instances, you might need to consider replacing the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are also 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 leak originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. This can be easily corrected by a uPVC window specialist who can here replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be at fault for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it blows open with an ease. They can be replaced by any competent DIYer and are usually completed in just a few minutes.
Like all mechanical parts hinges will wear out over time. It's easy to replace a hinge on a window, but it's easier if someone else helps hold the frame.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper direction. This can be done by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.
The issue can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation at the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photo through our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a good method of doing this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the risk of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. This should be done at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. The hinges, also due to wear and tear may become displaced, which will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be required to realign them. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.
The next common cause of draughts is the window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time and let air escape through the gaps. Replacing these with high-quality weatherstripping can help keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the possibility of draughts.
The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be put on top of your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
The windows made of upvc can continue to provide excellent insulation and security to your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a lifespan and there may come an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is always recommended to seek assistance from a professional immediately.