Floyd Motter asked 3 months ago
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They don’t rot or rust like timber and aluminum.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will reduce repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you’re doing all you can to ensure that your windows are in good repair.
Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they typically fit into frames of the past easily. However when windows with double panes are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to get rid of the existing panes and install new ones. In this case you’ll need source some plastic spacers that will aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the frame of the window.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass, so that any fragments of glass fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.
It’s a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your property until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access to your home. If the gap between the door and the window is large, you might need to consider a security screen that also includes an opening. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc is a long-lasting, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it’s important to act quickly to stop the issue from becoming worse.
Repositioning the hinges can help fix a window that is sagging. To do this, you’ll need to open the window to access the frame. With an screwdriver, take off the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have moved your hinges. If you’re satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they remain in the right place.
If you can’t reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it’s essential to replace the seal as fast as possible so that your uPVC windows are waterproof and draught-proof.
uPVC handles may also become loose. Most often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has worn out. It’s relatively simple to repair 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 should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn’t then you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to act if you wake up every morning to find a smoky wall and wet floors. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home, and affect your ability to regulate the temperature in your home. Most often, uPVC window repairs leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be completed by any DIY expert. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a new layer is applied. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to apply too much caulk and then make the area harder to clean and reduce your energy efficiency.
It is crucial to make sure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled in a way that allows it to drain 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 sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to remember that if the leak is coming from between the glass in 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 easily fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or slack and blow open with a breeze it could be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and can be completed in just a few minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It’s easy to change a window hinge but it’s much easier if someone helps hold the frame.
Verify that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the proper direction. You can do this by looking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should open.
The problem can be caused by opening the window improperly or by a poor installation in the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are always happy to give assistance.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn’t contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by several different factors. First, the hinges due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This causes a gap to form where the sash meets the frame. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be required to realign them. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it may be possible to just give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.
The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals, these are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity lenses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the possibility of draughts.
Another, and most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be placed on the windowsill on top. They can help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!
With a little maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will provide a great level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach the point when it’s more efficient to replace them than repair them. If you have any problems with your Upvc window, it’s best to consult an expert as soon as possible.