uPVC windows are an excellent choice for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. Unlike timber and aluminium, they do not corrosion or rot.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and improve the efficiency of energy.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window has been damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is crucial to take the time to ensure that you are doing everything you can to keep your windows in good repair.
For single pane windows it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window will generally fit within the frame that was previously installed easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation, you will need to find some plastic spacers that will assist the new pane to fit properly into the window frame.
If you are going attempt to remove the window panes yourself, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment such as gloves that are thick and eye protection. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you begin working on the glass, so that any shards fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor, where they could be trodden under and cause further damage.
It’s a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass has been removed. This will stop water and drafts from entering your property until a professional comes out to fix the window. This will also act as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from getting access to your home. If the distance between the door and the window is significant, you may prefer a security screen that also includes windows. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows with sash. As time passes, they may be affected by a variety of issues, including sliding. A window that isn’t properly aligned can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It’s crucial to act when you discover that your uPVC windows are falling down.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try to reposition the hinges. To accomplish this, you’ll have to open the window to access the frame. With a screwdriver, you can take off the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after having relocated your hinges. If you’re satisfied with the fit of the window, you can tighten screws to keep them in place.
If you can’t reposition the hinges, you might require replacing the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes their tightness to decrease. It is crucial to replace your seal as soon as you can to ensure that your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles may also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it can also be due to the mechanism of the handle wears out. It’s relatively simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you’ll need to close the window and perform a test fitting. The corners of the sash must align with the casing joint. If it doesn’t, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then turn 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 find a smoky wall and wet floors. The leaks of water from windows do can not only cause degradation of your home’s structure but also hinder your efforts to control the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a simple fix that can be done by any DIYer who is competent. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking might need to be removed. When it comes to uPVC repair, it is important to be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
It is crucial to make sure that the 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 may need to replace the window.
Mold spots and rotted sills are another sign of water leakage. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed glass it is more likely that the issue is more with the seal rather than the frame. A uPVC specialist can fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will ensure the complete insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges may be to blame if your upvc windows repairs near me window is difficult to open, or if it opens with an ease. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.
Like all mechanical parts hinges will wear out over time. Changing a window hinge is an easy procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to help you hold the frame up.
Make sure that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper 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 could be caused by improperly opening the window in a particular manner or because of improper installation in the factory. Sending us a photo through our website can often resolve the problem. We are more than happy to offer assistance.
Regularly lubricating the hinges is essential. This can be accomplished by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant such as 3-in-one Multi-Purpose Oil. Regular lubrication can allow the window to operate and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This is recommended to be done at least every year. WD40 or other solvent-based oils should not be used as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different factors. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which will cause a gap to form between the sash and the frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good cleaning, but when they’re beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them aligned or replaced. The interlock may also become disaligned. It is located on the hinge’s side, and Repairs to uPVC Windows may need to be cleaned. In some cases it is possible to replace them.
The second most frequent reason for draughts are the window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity glass. This will help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce draughts.
One of the most effective methods to reduce draughts is by using a draught excluder. These are usually fabric tubes that are filled with some type of filler. They can be positioned on the top of your windowsill. They can help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!
With a little maintenance and repairs, your upvc windows will provide a great level of security and insulation for your home. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows eventually wear out and it is more cost-effective to simply replace them than to repair them. If you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it’s best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.