A Provocative Rant About Repairs To Upvc Windows

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC is an excellent option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to decay or rust as aluminum or timber.

It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will save you from costly repairs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good shape.

For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and upvc Window Repair replace the panes that were previously in use. In this case it is essential to buy plastic spacers to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

If you plan to try to remove the glass panes yourself it is crucial to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including thick gloves and protective eyewear. It is also a good idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass so that any fragments of glass fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.

Once the glass has been removed from the window, it's best to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent drafts and water from entering the property until a professional is able to come out and fix the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from getting access to your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using 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 can suffer from a variety of issues, including sliding. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It is crucial to act immediately if you discover that your uPVC windows are falling down.

Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sliding. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. You can then unscrew both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they remain in position.

If you aren't able to move the hinges you may require replacing the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, leading them to loosen. 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 can also loosen. This is often caused by screws that have loosened over time, but it could also be due to the mechanism of the handle wearing out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose Upvc window repair hand. First, UPVC window repair you'll need to close the window and do a test fitting. The corners of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't, 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 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 inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be completed by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on how serious the issue is, the old caulking may need to be removed. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is angled properly so that it drains away from the window. In more severe cases, you may need to replace the window.

Other indicators of water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. The is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.

If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely that the issue is related to the seal, not the frame. This can be easily fixed by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and blow open in a breeze, it may be hinges that are at fault. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix hinges 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 are susceptible to wear and tear over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier if you have someone to help you hold the frame up.

It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. This can be done by checking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges could be caused by improperly opening the window in a certain way or by inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website will often solve the issue. We are always happy to give assistance.

Regularly lubricating the hinges is also necessary. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal way to do this. We recommend using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the possibility of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. This must be done at a minimum once a 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 a variety of various factors. First, the hinges due to wear and tear may become displaced, which will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them realigned. Secondly the interlock, this is on the hinge side of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it is feasible to give them a good clean, but in certain cases, it may be necessary to get them replaced.

The next common cause of draughts is the window seals. They are susceptible to being worn out or damaged over time and will allow air to escape through these 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 in regulating indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.

Another, and most effective ways to cut down on the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric that are filled with some sort of filler and can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. They can help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cosy!

With a little regular maintenance and repair, your upvc windows will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a lifespan and there may come the point when it's more economical to replace them than repair them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.