Many Of The Common Errors People Make With Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They don't get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows can cause serious damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you're doing all you can to keep your windows in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this instance you'll need source some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit perfectly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall on the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled.
It's a great idea to tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will prevent drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional arrives to repair the window. It also acts as an obstruction to prevent intruders from making their way into your home. If the distance between the door and the window is significant, you may prefer an alarm system that has an opening. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a cost-effective energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues like sagging. A sagging uPVC windows could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from getting worse.
Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window which is sagging. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can access the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and check for fit. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure they remain in the right place.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loosen. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.
UPVC handles can also become loose. Most often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and perform a test fit. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it does not then you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then, you can turn the mechanism back into place.
3. window repair near me
If you're waking up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. The leaks of water from windows do are not just a cause for degrading of the structure of your home but also hinder your efforts to regulate the temperature within your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is damaged or missing.
It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue is, old caulking may have to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
It is important to check that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you may have to replace 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. The fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.
It is also important to remember that if the leakage originates from the glass in your double glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this issue 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 loose and blow open with ease It could be hinges that are at the fault. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in just a few minutes.
Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier to do when you have a person to help hold the frame up.
It is also important to ensure 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 the direction in which the window should open.
Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos through our website can often resolve the problem. We are happy to provide advice.
It is also crucial to grease the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We suggest using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window operate and close more easily. It also decreases the chance of windows sticking and prevent corrosion. This is recommended to be done at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by different factors. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, which can cause a gap between the frame and sash. If they are damaged beyond repair, it may be necessary to get them re-aligned. Second, the interlock can be disaligned. This happens on the hinge side and might require to be cleaned. In some instances it is possible to replace them.
The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time and allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and will reduce draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce the draughts in your home is to use an draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with some sort of filler and can be put on the windowsill on top. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
With a little regular maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to realize that windows last for a certain period of time and eventually, they will reach an point at which it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult a professional as soon as possible.