Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. Unlike timber and aluminium, they are not susceptible to rust or rot.
It is essential to clean and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can 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 relatively easy to replace, and they will usually fit into the old frames very easily. However, if you have double-pane windows that are anchored by internal beading it will be more difficult to get rid of the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric instead of onto the floor, where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.
It's a great idea cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will prevent drafts and water from entering your home until a professional is able to repair the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders to gain access into your home. If the gap is large, you may be interested in a security door that has an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash windows. However, over time they may be afflicted by a variety of issues like sliding. A sagging uPVC windows can cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from getting worse.
Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window which is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window so that you can get to the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver and adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after having repositioned your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to keep them in place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry and cause their tightness to decrease. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles may also loosen up. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. It's fairly simple to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need close the window and then perform an initial test fit. The corners of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
If you're waking up to wet floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it is important that you take action. The leaks of water from windows do are not just a cause for degradation of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature inside 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 DIY expert. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking may require removal before a new layer of caulk can be applied. It is crucial to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to apply too much caulk' as this will only make the area harder to clean and decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.
Check that any drainage holes do not have debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan is angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sliding. It is also possible to be corrected by a uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or slack and open in a breeze, it may be hinges that are at the fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process but it can be simpler when you have a person to assist in holding the frame in place.
It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the correct direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.
The issue could be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or due to a poor installation in the factory. Sending us photos via our website will often resolve the problem. We are more than happy to offer assistance.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to operate and close more smoothly. It also decreases the possibility of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. Ideally, you should do this at least once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different factors. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This can cause gaps to develop where the sash meets the frame. If they're beyond repair, it might be required to realign them. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window, may also become misaligned, again it is feasible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.
The next common reason for draughts is window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will lessen the possibility of draughts.
The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be put on top of your window sill. They can keep your home warm by blocking cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window it is recommended to speak with an expert as soon as you can.