Repairs to uPVC Windows
upvc window repair is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't rust or rot.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can cause severe damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good condition.
For single pane windows, it is fairly easy to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. However when you have
double glazed window repairs pane windows that are held in place by internal beading, it'll be more difficult to remove the existing panes and install new ones. In this case, you will need to source some plastic spacers to help the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any fragments of glass fall on the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.
It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your home until a professional arrives to fix the window. It also acts as an obstacle to stop intruders from getting into your home. If the distance between the window and the door is significant, you may need to consider a security screen that also includes windows. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time, they can suffer from a variety of issues like sliding. A sagging window in
upvc window repair can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you notice that your uPVC
window repairs near me is beginning to shrink, it is important to act swiftly to prevent the problem from worsening.
Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they remain in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as soon as possible so that your uPVC windows remain watertight and draught-proof.
uPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it can be due to the handle mechanism wears out. It's a good thing that it's simple to repair a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home and also hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.
This is an easy fix that can be done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be put on. It is crucial to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk and then make the area more difficult to clean and reduce the efficiency of your energy.
It is important to check that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotten sills are other signs of water leakage. This mold thrives in damp environments and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
If the leakage is occurring between the
double glazed window repairs near me-glazed window, it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal rather than the frame. This can be easily corrected by an uPVC
window repair specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open with ease, it may be hinges that are at fault. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and are usually completed in a matter of minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is an easy process but it can be simpler with someone else to assist in holding the frame up.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the correct direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.
The issue can be caused either by opening the window improperly or due to a poor installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photo through our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.
Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to operate and close more easily. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. Ideally, you should perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a few different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes a gap to form between the sash and the frame. They can be repaired by giving them thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it may be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. The interlock may be unbalanced. This is located on the hinge side and could require to be cleaned. In certain instances, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.
The next most common reason for draughts is window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen the possibility of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a type of filler. They can be put on the windowsill on top. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a little maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will continue to provide a great level of 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 than to repair them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as you can.