15 Lessons Your Boss Wants You To Know About Repairs To Upvc Windows You Knew About Repairs To Upvc Windows
15 Lessons Your Boss Wants You To Know About Repairs To Upvc Windows You Knew About Repairs To Upvc Windows
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Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. As opposed to aluminium and timber they don't get rusty or decay.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will help avoid unnecessary repair costs 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 ensure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are fairly simple to replace, and they will usually fit into the frames of the past easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation you'll need to source some plastic spacers to assist the new pane to fit perfectly into the frame of the window.
If you're planning attempt to remove the window panes yourself it is important 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 dropcloth before you begin working on the window panes to ensure that any shards of glass fall onto the fabric and not on the floor which could cause them to be trampled under.
It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your home until a professional comes out to fix the window. This will also provide an obstruction to prevent intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you may want to consider using a security door that has an integrated window as it offers the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are an affordable, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber sash windows. In time, they could develop a number of problems that include sliding. A sagging window can cause problems with light, draughts or even security. It's important to take action when you notice your uPVC windows are sliding.
To fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. First, you'll need to unblock the windows so you can reach the frame. Then, you can remove the top and bottom hinges with a screwdriver and adjust them counter-clockwise or clockwise. Close your window to check the fit after you've repositioned your hinges. If you are happy with the size of the window, you can tighten screws to hold them in the right position.
If you are unable to reposition the hinges, you could need to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to lose tightness. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can in order to ensure that 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 also be due to the handle mechanism wearing out. Luckily, it's not difficult to fix the handle of a window that is loose yourself. First, you'll need to close your window and do an initial test to ensure that it fits. The corner joints of the sash need to align with the casing joint. If it isn't, you can use the screwdriver to loosen up the handle. Then, turn the mechanism into position.
3. Water Leaks
If you wake up to wet floors and mouldy walls every time it rains it is important that you take action. Water leaks through windows can cause structural damage to your home, and impact your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.
This is a relatively easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Based on the severity of the problem the caulking that was used up may require removal before a new layer can be put on. It is important to keep in mind that when it comes to uPVC window repairs, do not be tempted to 'over-caulk and then make the area more difficult to clean and could reduce the efficiency of your energy.
It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is angled in a way that allows it to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.
Moldy sills and rotten ones are other signs of water leakage. This fungus thrives in humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the house.
If the leakage occurs between the double-glazed window, it is more likely that the problem is related to the seal, not the frame. A uPVC specialist can easily fix this issue by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason if your uPVC window is difficult to open or it opens with a breeze. These are easily repaired by any skilled DIYer and can be completed in just a few minutes.
Nearly every home in the UK will have top-hung or side-hung uPVC windows that use hinges and, like all mechanical parts, they are susceptible to wear and tear over time. It is essentially a very simple procedure, but it is easier to do with someone else to help you hold the frame up.
It is also important to verify that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. Check for the arrows on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.
The issue could be caused either by opening the window incorrectly or due to a poor installation at the factory. Sending us photos via our website will often resolve the problem. We are more than happy to give suggestions.
Regular lubrication of hinges is also essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is a great method of doing this. We suggest using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the risk of a window getting stuck and stop corrosion. The ideal time to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants should not be used since they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by different things. Firstly the hinges, again due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This causes an opening to appear between the sash and the frame. This can be easily repaired by giving them good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to have them re-aligned or replaced. Second, the interlock can be misaligned. It is located on the door repairs hinge's side, and could require to be cleaned. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace these.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or become damaged over time, allowing air escape. Replacement of these with high-quality weatherstripping will help to keep draughts at bay. Another option is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce the possibility of draughts.
The last way to reduce draughts effectively is by using a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler, which can be placed over your window sill. They will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
With a little maintenance and repair windows made of upvc will provide an excellent level of insulation and security for your home. However, it is important to recognize that all windows have a lifespan and eventually, they will reach an point at which it is more efficient to replace them than fix them. So, if you are experiencing problems with your upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.