15 Facts Your Boss Wants You To Know About Repairs To Upvc Windows You'd Known About Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't corrosion or rot.
It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will reduce costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. It is crucial 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 fairly simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames that were previously in use very easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance you'll need find some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor and could be trampled.
Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from getting into the home until a professional is able to come out and repair the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders to gain access into your home. If the distance between the window and the door is significant, you may need to consider an alarm system that includes a window. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to stop the issue from worsening.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges using a screwdriver and adjust the hinges clockwise or counter-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and verify the fitting. If you are happy with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to hold them in place.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes them to lose tightness. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could also be due to the mechanism of the handle getting worn out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need close the window and perform an initial test to ensure that it fits. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism back into place.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to take action if you wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and also hinder your ability to control the temperature of your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Based on the severity of the problem the caulking used previously might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be put on. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and could decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.
double glazing Watford is crucial to make sure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan has been angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.
If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal rather than the frame. This can be easily repaired by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges may be to blame if your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with the breeze. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.
Almost every household in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they can wear down over time. Changing a window hinge is an easy process, but it's easier if you have someone to help hold the frame in place.
It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.
The issue can be caused by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photograph through our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.
It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is an ideal method to accomplish this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window operate and close more smoothly. It can also lower the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils should not be used since they could damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. First, the hinges due to wear and tear may become displaced, which causes a gap to form between the sash and the frame. If they're beyond repair, it might be required to realign them. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can also become misaligned, again it's possible to just give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.
These seals can wear down or be damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to stop draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce draughts.
The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually become worn out, and it is more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. If you encounter any issues with your Upvc window, it's best to consult an expert as soon as possible.