15 Things Your Boss Wished You'd Known About Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they are not susceptible to get rusty or decay.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows on a regular basis. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a huge amount of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. window repairs is essential to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they typically fit into old frames very easily. However, if windows with double panes are secured by internal beading, it will be more difficult to get rid of the existing panes and install new ones. In this instance it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to help the new pane fit into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass, so that any fragments of glass fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.
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 entering the home until a professional comes out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders from getting access into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is substantial, you may want to use an alarm system that includes a window. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action when you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.
Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sagging. To do this, you'll need to open the window to access the frame. With the screwdriver, you'll be able to remove the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to hold them in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges you may need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes their tightness to decrease. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.
uPVC handles could also loosen. Most often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to close your window and do an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corners of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then turn the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is essential to take action if get up each morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any DIY expert. Depending on how severe the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window more difficult to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
It is important to check that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme situations, you may have to replace the window.
Other indicators of water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily corrected by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or loose and open with ease, it may be hinges that are at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace these 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 if you have someone to help hold the frame up.
It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the right direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine which direction the window should be opened.
Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or by improper installation in the factory. It is usually possible to fix the issue by sending us a photo through our website and we will be pleased to offer you suggestions.
Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a great method to accomplish this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to open and close more easily. It can also lower the chance of windows getting stuck and stop corrosion. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, creating gaps between the frame and sash. They can be repaired by giving them a good cleaning, but when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. The interlock may also become misaligned. This is located on the hinge side and may need to be cleaned. In some cases it might be necessary to replace these.
These seals can wear down or get damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will reduce draughts.
The final method to cut down on draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. They will help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cozy!
Your upvc windows can continue to provide excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a lifespan and there may come an point at which it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc you should consult a professional immediately.