Some Of The Most Common Mistakes People Make With Repairs To Upvc Windows
Some Of The Most Common Mistakes People Make With Repairs To Upvc Windows
Blog Article
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 rot or rust like aluminum or timber.
It is crucial to wash and oil UPVC doors and windows regularly. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, making it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace and generally fit into frames of the past easily. However, if you have double pane windows that are anchored by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove the panes that are in place and replace them with new ones. In this case you'll need to find some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the window frame.
If you're planning to try to remove the window panes by yourself it is crucial to wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves that are thick and protective eyewear. You should also lay down a dropcloth prior to you begin working on the window panes, so that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not onto the floor, where they could be trampled.
It's a great idea to tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any intruders from making their way into your home. If the gap is large, you might think about the security door with an integrated window as this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. In time, they could develop a number of problems such as sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are falling down.
Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sliding. You'll first need to open the windows so you can reach the frame. With a screwdriver, you can take off the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close the window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to hold them in place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry and cause their tightness to decrease. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to ensure that your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.
UPVC handles can also loosen. Often, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform an experiment fitting. The corners of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle and then return the mechanism to its original its original position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains, it's important to take action. Leaks of water from windows can 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 a relatively easy fix that can be completed by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up may require removal before a new layer is applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid 'over-caulking'. This will only make your window harder to clean and lower its energy efficiency.
It is crucial to make sure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan has been angled correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.
Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. The mold thrives in damp environments and is able to quickly spread throughout the house.
It is also important to note that if the leakage is coming from between 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. Again this can easily 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 difficult to open, or loose and blow open with a breeze it could be the hinges that are at fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace hinges in just a few minutes.
Most households in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It is an easy procedure, but it is easier to do if you have someone to help hold the frame up.
It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. This can be done by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.
The issue could be caused by opening the window improperly or a faulty installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a picture on our website. We will be more than happy to give you advice.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window open and close more easily. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This must be done at a minimum every year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different factors. The hinges can also become disaligned as a result of wear, causing a gap where the sash meets frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them a good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to have them re-aligned or glazing repairs replaced. The interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, can also be misaligned, and again it may be possible to just give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.
The seals may wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping can help stop draughts. Another option is to replace the upvc window with low-emissivity glass, this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will reduce the possibility of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective methods to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes filled with some type of filler. They can be placed on the top of your windowsill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!
Your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually get worn out and it is more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. If you have any problems with your window made of upvc, it's best to consult a professional as soon as you can.