Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is an excellent choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like aluminum or timber.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will help prevent costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into old frames very easily. However when you have double pane windows that are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to take out the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.
Wearing Horley double glazing repair and thick gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards will fall on the fabric rather than 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 seal the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from entering the property until a professional can come out and fix the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is large, you may think about a security door that has an integrated window as it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. Over time, they can develop a number of problems that include sagging. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's crucial to act immediately if you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need open the window to get to the frame. With a screwdriver, you can take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and test it for an appropriate fit. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they stay in the right place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to lose their tightness. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.
uPVC handles could 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 wears out. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. The first step is to close the window and perform a test fit. The corners of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism back into place.
3. Water Leaks
If you're waking up to damp floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it's crucial to take action. Water leaks from windows can not only cause degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is an easy fix that can be completed by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may require removal before a new layer is applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This can make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan has been angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you might need to consider replacing the window.
Other indicators of long-term water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.
If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed window, it is more likely that the problem is with the seal than the frame. It is also possible to be repaired by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges may be to blame when your uPVC window is difficult to open, or if it opens with an ease. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be done within 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 essentially a simple process but it can be easier to do with someone else to assist in holding the frame up.
It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. You can do this by looking for the arrow on each hinge, this indicates which way the window should be opened.
Faulty window hinges could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a certain way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a photo via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are always happy to give assistance.
It is also essential to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the risk of a window sticking and prevent corrosion. It is recommended to perform this every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by 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 thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it is possible to just give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.
The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals. They 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 prevent draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also lessen draughts.
Another, and most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a kind of filler. They can be positioned on the 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 windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to recognise that all windows have a lifespan and there may come a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your upvc window it is recommended to speak with a professional immediately.