Some Of The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Using Repairs To Upv…

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. They don't decay or rust as aluminum or timber.

Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will save you from costly repairs and improve the efficiency of energy.

1. Broken Glass

The damaged glass in your windows can cause significant damage to your home, and could even be fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you're doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

Single-pane windows are relatively easy to replace, and they generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double-paned windows that are held together by internal beading, it is more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance you'll need to locate some plastic spacers that help the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.

Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is essential for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also a good idea to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards fall onto the cloth rather than on the floor where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.

It's a great idea tape the gap once the glass is removed. This will stop drafts and water from entering your home until a professional is able to fix the window. This will also provide an obstacle to stop criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you may be interested in an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, as it offers the best of both worlds.

2. Sagging

Upvc windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows with sash. However, with time, they are susceptible to a range of problems including sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you notice that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it is important to act swiftly to stop the issue from worsening.

Repositioning the hinges can aid in fixing a window which is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window to access the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, unscrew the top and bottom hinges and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you have moved your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they stay in place.

If you aren't able to move the hinges, you might need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loose their elasticity. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as fast as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and secure from draughts.

UPVC handles can also become loose. The majority of the time, this is caused by screws that have become loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has been worn out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need to close the window and do a test fitting. The corner joints of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and turn the mechanism back into the position it was in.

3. Water Leaks

It is essential to take action if wake up every morning to discover mouldy walls and wet floors. Windows that leak water do not only lead to the destruction of your home's structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a lack or damage to the sealant.

This is an easy fix that can be completed by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on how serious the problem is, the old caulking might need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This will only make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.

Check that any drainage holes have no debris in them, and also ensure that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you may need to replace the window.

Moldy sills and rotten ones are also 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 note that if the leakage is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows it may be more likely to be a problem with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily solve this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

Hinges may be to blame when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens in a breeze. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace these in a matter of minutes.

Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side-hung uPVC windows that have hinges and, just like any mechanical component they can wear down over time. It is an easy process but it can be easier to do if you have someone to help you hold the frame up.

Verify that the uPVC hinges open and close in the right direction. You can check this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.

Window hinges that aren't working properly could be caused by improperly opening the window a certain way or due to inadequate installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website will often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give suggestions.

Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal method to accomplish this. We suggest using a lubricant that does not contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication will help the window to operate and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based fluids are not recommended since they will damage parts of your uPVC window.

5. Draughts

Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by various factors. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which causes a gap to form where the sash joins the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them a thorough clean, however if they are beyond repair it might be necessary to have them realigned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it may be possible to give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to have these replaced.

The next common reason for draughts is window seals. They are prone to wear or damaged over time and let air escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen the risk of draughts.

The final method to cut down on the amount of draughts is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. They will help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!

With a bit of regular maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will provide excellent security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it could be more cost-effective to simply replace them rather than repair them. So, if you're having issues with your upvc repairs windows, it's best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.