Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is an excellent option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.
For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one will generally fit within the old frame very easily. However, if windows with double panes are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case it is essential to purchase plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
If you are going to attempt to remove the window panes yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.
After the glass has been removed and the glass is removed, it's a good idea to seal the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to stop water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional comes out and repair the window. This will also provide a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc is a long-lasting energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues, including sliding. A sagging window in uPVC can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from getting worse.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window to access the frame. Then, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to keep them in place.
If you can't reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and draught-proof.
uPVC handles may also loosen. Most often, this is caused by screws that have come 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. You'll first need to close the window and do a test fitting. The upvc repair near me joints at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it does not then you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism to position.
3. Water Leaks
If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. Windows that leak water do are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or not present.
It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on how severe the issue is, old caulking may have to be removed. It is essential to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, do avoid the temptation to "over-caulk and then make the area more difficult to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.
Check that any drainage holes are free of debris in them and that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotted sills are other signs of water leakage. The fungus thrives in conditions of dampness 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. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and open in a breeze It could be the hinges that are at fault. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Like all mechanical parts hinges are prone to wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a very simple process, but it's easier to do when you have a person to help you hold the frame in place.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.
Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or by improper installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be pleased to offer you advice.
It is also crucial to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. First, the hinges due to wear and tear can become misaligned, this causes gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window and can also become misaligned, again it may be possible to give them a good clean, but in some instances it could be necessary to get them replaced.
The seals may wear out or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce draughts.
The last way to reduce the amount of draughts is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be put on top of your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security in your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to recognise that all windows have a life span and eventually, they will reach a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you encounter any issues with your window made of upvc you should consult an expert as soon as possible.