A Provocative Rant About Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and durable, as well as long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they don't get rusty or decay.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs as well as improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The broken glass in your windows could cause serious damage to your home and may even be fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace windows, and the new one will usually fit inside the old frame 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 case you'll need find some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by 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 onto the fabric instead of onto the floor, where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.

It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional comes out to repair the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may think about the security door with an integrated window as it will provide the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. However, over time, they can suffer from a variety of issues like sagging. A sagging window in uPVC could 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 becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sliding. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window so that you can access the frame. After that, using a screwdriver, you can take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close the window and verify the fitting. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in place.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you could need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loosen. If this happens, it's crucial to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are waterproof and secure from draughts.

upvc window repair handles can also loosen up. This is often caused by screws that have been removed over time, but it can also be due to the handle mechanism wears out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close the window and then perform an initial test fit. The corner joints of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it isn't then you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is crucial to take action if wake up every morning to find a smoky wall and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature in your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or is missing.

It is a fairly easy fix and should be undertaken by any competent DIYer. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up may require removal before a new layer of caulk can be put on. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is essential to ensure that the drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, 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 wall near the window. The mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread across the home.

It is also important to remember that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges could be at fault if your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it opens with the breeze. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in a matter of minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges will be damaged over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a very simple process, but it's easier with someone else to help you hold the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the proper direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should open.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be the result of incorrectly opening the window a certain way or by inadequate installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.

It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We recommend using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window operate and close more smoothly. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. It is recommended to 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 upvc window repairs windows can be caused by various factors. The hinges, also due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This will cause a gap to form between the sash and the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them realigned or replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge side of the window and can also be misaligned, and again it's possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.

The next most common reason for draughts is window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass. this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will reduce the risk of draughts.

The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be put on top of your window sill. They will help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!

Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security for your home with a little regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it may be more cost-effective to replace them instead of fixing them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.