11 Ways To Completely Sabotage Your Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. They are not susceptible to decay or rust as timber and aluminum.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good repair.
For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need find some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall on the fabric, not onto the floor, where they could be trampled.
After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to seal the gap with clear packaging tape or duct tape to block water and drafts from entering the home until a professional comes out and repair the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. Over time, they can develop a number of problems, including sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's important to take action when you notice your uPVC windows are falling down.
To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can get to the frame. Then, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to remove 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 verify the fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as soon as possible so that your uPVC windows are watertight and secure from draughts.
uPVC handles could also become loose. Most often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. The first step is to close your window and do an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it's crucial to take action. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and also impact your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a simple fix that can be completed by any DIYer who has the ability. Based on the severity of the problem the old caulking might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. It is important to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to apply too much caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.
It is important to check that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases you may need to think about replacing the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are another sign of water leakage. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to note that if the leak is coming from between 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. A uPVC specialist can easily solve 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 loose and blow open with ease, it may be the hinges that are at the fault. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Most households in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they can wear down over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process but it can be simpler if you have someone to assist in holding the frame up.
It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.
Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular manner or because of inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website will often resolve the problem. window repair near me are more than happy to provide assistance.
It is also important to grease the hinges on a regular basis. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great method to accomplish this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to operate and close more smoothly. It can also reduce the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they could damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by various factors. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which can cause gaps to develop where the sash meets the frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it could be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. In addition, the interlock could be unbalanced. This is located on the hinge's side, and may need to be cleaned. In some cases it might be necessary to replace these.
The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals. These are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.
One of the most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a type of filler. They can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. They can 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 insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and they may reach an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window it is recommended to speak with a professional as soon as possible.