Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like aluminum or timber.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is broken 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 make sure that you're doing everything you can to keep your windows in good repair.
For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace windows, and the new one is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to get rid of the old panes and put in new ones. In this instance you'll need find some plastic spacers that assist 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. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you begin working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.
After the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the property until a professional comes out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier, preventing any intruders from getting access to your home. If the distance between the door and the window is substantial, you may want to use an alarm system that includes an opening. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a number of problems such as sagging. A window that isn't properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It is crucial to act immediately if you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window to get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in position.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you could need to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry, which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as fast as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can 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 initial test fit. The joint at the corner of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. The leaks of water from windows do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer is applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and lower its energy efficiency.
Check that window repairs have no debris in them and ensure that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to think about replacing the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. This can be easily fixed by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be at fault when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in the breeze. These are easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.
Like any mechanical component, hinges can wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is an easy procedure, but it is easier to do when you have a person to help hold the frame up.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the right direction. You can check this by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should open.
The problem can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.
Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to open and close more easily. It can also lower the possibility of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. The ideal time to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a variety of various factors. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This will cause a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. These can be easily fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however when they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. The interlock may also become misaligned. This happens on the hinge side and could require to be cleaned. In some cases it is possible to replace these.
The seals may wear out or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glasses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the risk of draughts.
Another, and most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes that are filled with some kind of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!
With a little maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. It is crucial to realize 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 fix them. So, if you're experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional immediately.