Some Of The Most Common Mistakes People Do With Repairs To Upvc Windows
Some Of The Most Common Mistakes People Do With Repairs To Upvc Windows
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a fantastic option for modern homes. They are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain. As opposed to aluminium and timber they do not get rusty or decay.
It is essential to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors regularly. This will save you from costly repairs 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 very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good working order.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they typically fit into old frames very easily. If windows with double panes are held together by internal beading, it will be difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this instance it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to help the new pane fit into the window frame.
Wearing protective eyewear and thick gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards fall onto the fabric, not onto the floor and could be trampled.
It's a great idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional arrives to fix the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you might want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window, since it will provide the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC windows and doors are an affordable energy-efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber windows made of sash. Over time, they can develop a number of problems, including sagging. A sagging window in uPVC can cause issues with light, draughts and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from worsening.
To fix a window that is sagging you can try to reposition the hinges. To do this, you'll need to open the window so that you can access the frame. Then, remove both the hinges on the top and bottom using a screwdriver, and then adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've repositioned your hinges. If you're happy with the fit, tighten the screws to ensure that they stay in position.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals may dry out and lose their elasticity with time, causing them to loosen. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows remain watertight and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles can also become loose. Most often this is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can be due to the fact that the handle mechanism has been worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. You'll first need to close the window and do a test fitting. The corners of the sash need to be aligned with the casing joint. If it isn't you can use a screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then turn the mechanism into position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to damp floors and mouldy walls each 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 of your home. The most common cause for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant surrounding the frame is either damaged or not present.
This is a simple fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on how serious the issue is, old caulking may need to be removed. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This can make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes do not have debris inside them and ensure that the sill pan has been angled correctly to drain away from the window. In more serious instances, you might need to consider replacing the window.
Other indicators of water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The mold thrives in damp environments and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak is coming from between the glass of your double-glazed windows, it is more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. Again this can easily be repaired by an uPVC window expert who can replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or slack and blow open in a breeze it could be hinges that are at fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.
Like any mechanical part, hinges can wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple process, but it's easier if you have someone to help you hold the frame in place.
It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the correct direction. You can do this by checking for the arrows on each hinge, this indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.
Window hinges that aren't working properly can be caused by incorrectly opening the window a certain manner or because of improper installation in the factory. This can often be resolved by sending us a photograph on our website. We will be pleased to offer you suggestions.
It is also essential to grease the hinges on a regular basis. Applying an engineering lubricant that is light to the hinges is a good method to accomplish this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can help the window to open and close more easily. It can also prevent corrosion and reduce the possibility of sticking. It is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 or other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they could damage your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts in Upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. Firstly the hinges, again because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this causes an opening to appear where the sash meets the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to have them realigned. The interlock may be misaligned. This happens on the hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In some cases it might be necessary to replace these.
These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of Upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and decrease the possibility of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective methods to reduce the draughts in your glass repairs home is to use a draught excluder, these are typically fabric tubes filled with some kind of filler. They can be put on the top of your windowsill. These will help to stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cozy!
With a little maintenance and repairs windows made of upvc will continue to provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to recognise that all windows have a life span and there may come the point when it's more cost-effective to replace them rather than repair them. If you encounter any issues with your Upvc window you should consult an expert as soon as possible.