15 Tips Your Boss Wishes You'd Known About Repairs To Upvc Window…

Repairs to uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain and are durable and long-lasting. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to corrosion or rot.

It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.

1. Broken Glass

If the glass in your window is broken it can cause a huge deal of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to take the time to make sure that you're doing all you can to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, uPVC window repairs and the replacement will generally fit within the frame that was previously installed easily. However If windows with double panes are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to remove the old panes and put in new ones. In this instance, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers in order to make sure that the new pane fits into the window frame.

Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must when you are planning to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth before you start working on the glass, so that any shards fall onto the cloth instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.

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

2. Sagging

Upvc is a long-lasting, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. Over time, they can develop a variety of issues, including sagging. A sagging uPVC windows can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to sag it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from becoming worse.

Repositioning the hinges could help fix a window that is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the window to get to the frame. Then, using an screwdriver, remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having repositioned your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, tighten the screws to secure them in place.

If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could have to replace the seal. Over time, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to lose tightness. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.

uPVC handles may also become loose. This is often caused by screws that have become undone over time, but it could be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close the window and then perform an experiment to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corner of the sash must align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle, and then turn the mechanism back into its original position.

3. Water Leaks

If you wake up to wet floors and damp walls each time it rains it's crucial to take action. The leaks of water from windows do not only lead to the degradation of your home's structure but also undermine your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. The most common cause for leaking uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame has been damaged or missing.

This is a simple fix that can be done by any DIYer who is competent. Based on the severity of the issue the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer is applied. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to "over-caulk in order to make the area harder to clean and decrease the efficiency of your energy usage.

It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are free of debris and that the sill pan is placed correctly so that it drains away from the window. In more serious situations, you might need to consider replacing the window.

Other indicators of water leakage are rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can quickly spread across the home.

It is also important to remember that if the leakage originates from 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 sagging. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.

4. Faulty Hinges

If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or loose and open with a breeze it could be hinges at the fault. They can be easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.

Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side hung uPVC windows that have hinges and like any mechanical part they can wear down over time. Changing a window hinge is essentially a simple process, but it's simpler with someone else to assist in holding the frame up.

Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the right direction. You can check this by looking for the arrow on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.

Faulty window hinges could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular way or by poor installation at the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be pleased to offer you suggestions.

Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. This can be accomplished 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 to open and close more easily. It also helps prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. This must be done at a minimum once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used as they can damage your uPVC windows.

5. Draughts

Draughts in windows made of upvc can be caused by a variety of different things. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, could become misaligned. This will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a thorough clean, however when they're beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is located on the hinge of the window, may also be misaligned, and again it may be feasible to give them a clean but in some cases it might be necessary to get them replaced.

These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another option is to replace the window with low-emissivity glass. this will help in regulating indoor temperatures and will reduce the risk of draughts.

The final method to cut down on drafts effectively is to use a Draught-excluder. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler that can be hung over your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking cold air.

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 will eventually wear out and it could be cheaper to replace them instead of fixing them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window replacement, it's best to consult a professional as soon as you can.