How To Outsmart Your Boss On Repairs To Upvc Windows
Repairs to uPVC Windows
upvc window repair near me windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they do not corrosion or rot.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will help prevent costly repairs and increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The broken glass in your windows could cause serious damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the frame of the previous one easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
If you're planning to attempt to remove the glass panes yourself it is crucial to wear appropriate safety gear that includes gloves with a thick layer of material and protective eyewear. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you begin working on the glass to ensure that any shards fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.
It's a great idea tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your property until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the gap is large, you may think about an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a cost-effective energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. Over time, they can develop a variety of issues such as sagging. A sagging window in Upvc Window Repair can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. It is crucial to act as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are sliding.
To fix a sagging window you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window to get to the frame. After that, using an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've repositioned the hinges, shut your window and test it for fitting. If you're happy with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in the right place.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Seals made of rubber can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, which causes them to loosen. It is essential to replace your seal as quickly as you can in order to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles could also loosen. Often, this is caused by screws that have come loose over time. However, it could occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to shut the window and do a test fitting. The joint at the corner of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to take action if you get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Water leaks from windows not only lead to the degrading of the structure of your home but also undermine your efforts to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. It is essential to remember that when it is about uPVC window repairs you should not be tempted to 'over-caulk' as this will only make the area more difficult to clean and can reduce your energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan is properly angled to drain away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily fixed by a 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 difficult to open, or slack and open in a breeze it could be the hinges that are at the fault. They can be repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be done within a few minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It is very easy to replace a hinge on a window, but it's easier if someone helps you hold the frame.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges are closed and open in the correct direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This shows which way the window should be opened.
The problem with the hinges on windows can be caused by incorrectly opening the window in a certain manner or because of poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website will often solve the issue. We are happy to give suggestions.
It is also crucial to lubricate the hinges on a regular basis. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method of doing this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few various factors. The hinges may also become unbalanced due to wear, creating gaps where the sash meets frame. If they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. The interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window, can also become misaligned, again it's feasible to give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.
The next most common cause of draughts is the window seals, these can become worn down 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 window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and again will lessen draughts.
Another, and most effective methods to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes which are filled with a sort of filler and can be put on the top of your windowsill. They can keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
Your upvc windows can remain a great source of insulation and security in your home with regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a lifespan and they may reach an point at which it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. So, if you are having issues with your upvc windows, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional as soon as possible.