17 Reasons Not To Avoid Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They do not rot or rust like aluminum or timber.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home and even be fatal. It is important to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it is difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation, you will need to locate some plastic spacers that assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes so that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor and could be trampled.
It's a good idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might 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 cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sagging. A sagging window in uPVC can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag 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. First, you'll need to open the windows so you can get at the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom with a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fitting. If you are happy with the fit of your window, you can tighten screws to hold them in the right position.
If you aren't able to move the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.
UPVC handles can also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it could also be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. The first step is to close the window and then perform a test fit. The joints at the corners of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it does not you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to take action if you awake each day to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to regulate the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a simple fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may require removal before a new layer can be applied. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs , you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them and ensure that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more severe cases, you may need to replace the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives under conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason for the reason that your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it blows open with an ease. Any competent DIYer can replace hinges in just a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, just like any mechanical component they will wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is an easy process, but it's easier with someone else to help hold the frame in place.
Check that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper 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 certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are more than happy to offer assistance.
Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to open and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. Ideally, you should perform this 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 things. The hinges can also be unbalanced due to wear, creating an opening between the frame and sash. These can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. Second, the interlock can also become misaligned. This happens on the hinge side and might require to be cleaned. In some cases it might be necessary to replace them.
The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help control indoor temperatures, and reduce the risk of draughts.
The last way to reduce draughts effectively is by using a Draught-excluder. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cozy!
With a bit of regular maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it is cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. If you encounter any issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult a professional as soon as you can.