5 Laws That Anyone Working In Repairs To Upvc Windows Should Know

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They don't get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.

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

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause severe damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good shape.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace and will usually fit into the old frames very easily. However, if you have double pane windows that are secured 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 essential to purchase plastic spacers to help the new pane fit into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards fall on the fabric and not onto the floor and could be trampled under.

It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from entering your property until a professional comes out to repair the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, since it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

uPVC is durable and energy efficient alternative to timber sash window. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of issues like sagging. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts and even security. It's important to take action when you notice your uPVC windows are sagging.

To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window to access the frame. Then, you can remove the hinges at the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you have moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window repair, you can tighten screws to hold them in the right position.

If you are unable to move the hinges, you might have to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, leading them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.

uPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have been removed over time, but it could be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. It's relatively simple to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close your window and do a test fit. The corner joints of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to take action. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home, and impact your ability to regulate the temperature in 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 done by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up may need to be removed before a new layer can be put on. It is important to remember that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area more difficult to clean and can decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

Make sure that the drainage holes have no debris in them and that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you might have to consider replacing the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. This is a fungus that thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread throughout the house.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double glazed windows it may be 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 regain the full insulation properties of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame if your upvc window repairs near me window is difficult to open, or if it opens in an ease. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix hinges in just a few minutes.

Like all mechanical parts hinges are prone to be damaged over time. It's easy to change the hinges on a window but it's much easier if someone else helps hold the frame.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a particular way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us a photo through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to offer advice.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We recommend using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of sticking. This should be done at least every year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc window repairs can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also due to wear and tear may become displaced, which can cause a gap to form where the sash joins the frame. These can be easily repaired by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it could be necessary to have 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 feasible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

The second most frequent reason for draughts is window seals. They can become worn down or damaged over time and allow air to escape through the gaps. Installing high-quality weatherstripping will help to stop draughts. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and will reduce the possibility of draughts.

Another method of reducing draughts effectively is by using a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be placed over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.

With a little maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows will eventually become worn out, and it is cheaper to replace them than to repair them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as you can.