Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. window repairs near me are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to get rotten or rusty like aluminum and timber.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
For single pane windows it is fairly easy to replace windows, and the new one is usually able to fit into the old frame very easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the old panes. In this case you'll need to find some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit correctly into the frame of the window.
If you're planning attempt to remove the window panes yourself it is important to wear the proper safety gear such as gloves that are thick and eye protection. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass to ensure that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of onto the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.
Once the glass is removed and the glass is removed, it's a good idea to cover the gap with some clear packaging tape or duct tape to prevent water and drafts from entering the property until a professional can come out and repair the window. This will also act as a barrier, deterring any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the gap between the door and the window is significant, you may prefer an alarm system that has windows. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is a durable energy-efficient, cost-effective and economical alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are falling down.
To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, take off the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, close your window and verify the fit. If you're satisfied with the fit of your window, tighten the screws to hold them in the right position.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry and cause them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as quickly as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time it is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it could also happen because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. First, you'll need to shut the window and perform a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash should align with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can make use of a screwdriver to loosen the handle and turn the mechanism back into position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and hinder your ability to control the temperature in your home. The most common reason for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is damaged or not present.
This is a simple fix that can be completed by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking used previously may require removal before a new layer of caulk can be applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid 'over-caulking'. This can make your window harder to clean and decrease its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious situations, you may need to think about replacing 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 humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout 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 sagging. Again this can easily be fixed by an uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open in a breeze, it may be hinges at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.
Most households 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. It is essentially a very simple process but it can be easier to do when you have a person to assist in holding the frame in place.
Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the correct direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.
The issue can be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or by a poor installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a picture via our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a great method to accomplish this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn't contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more smoothly. 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 will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different causes. The hinges can also be disaligned as a result of wear, which can cause an opening where the sash and frame meet. If they are damaged beyond repair, it might be required to realign them. In addition, the interlock could be unbalanced. This happens on the hinge's side and might require to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the hinges.
The next common reason for draughts is window seals. These are prone to wear or damaged over time and allow air to escape through these gaps. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping is a good way to keep draughts at bay. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures and lessen the possibility of draughts.
Another, and most effective methods to reduce the draughts in your home is to use a draught excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with some kind of filler. They can be placed on top of your windowsill. They can help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!
With a little regular maintenance and repairs your windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of security and insulation for your home. It is essential to remember that all windows eventually wear out and it may be more cost-effective to replace them than to repair them. So, if you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.