5 Common Myths About Repairs To Upvc Windows You Should Stay Clear Of
5 Common Myths About Repairs To Upvc Windows You Should Stay Clear Of
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great option for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like timber and aluminum.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is vital. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great deal of damage to your home, which can make it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. It is important to ensure that your windows are in good shape.
For single pane windows, it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the old frame very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are held together by internal beading, it will be harder to remove and replace the old panes. In this situation it is essential to buy plastic spacers to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
If you are going to attempt to remove the window panes yourself it is important to wear the proper safety gear such as gloves that are thick and eye protection. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass so that any shards will fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled upon and cause further damage.
It's a great idea tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will prevent water and drafts from entering your home until a professional comes out to repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry into your home. If the gap is particularly large, you might want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window, since this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are a low-cost, durable and energy-efficient alternative to timber windows made of sash. In time, they could develop a number of problems such as sagging. A window that is sagging 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 fix a sagging window you can try repositioning the hinges. To accomplish this, you'll have to open the window so that you can get to the frame. With a screwdriver, you can remove the hinges on the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after having moved your hinges. If you are happy with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to hold them in place.
If you are unable to move the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. As time passes, rubber seals lose their elasticity and dry out, which causes their tightness to decrease. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as quickly as you can to ensure that your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.
UPVC handles can also become loose. This is usually due to screws that have become undone over time, but it could also be due to the mechanism of the handle wears out. It's fairly simple to repair a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to shut the window and then perform an initial fitting. The corner joints of the sash must be aligned with the casing joint. If it does not then you can use the screwdriver to loosen the handle. Then turn the mechanism into position.
3. Water Leaks
It is essential to take action if you get up each morning to find mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and impact your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. The most frequent reason for leaks in uPVC windows is that the sealant around the frame is either damaged or is missing.
This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by any DIYer who is competent. Based on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up may require removal before a new layer of caulk is applied. When it comes to uPVC repair, you must avoid 'over-caulking'. This will make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
Make sure that the drainage holes are free of debris inside them and that the sill pan has been properly angled to allow the water to drain from the window. In more serious cases you might have to consider replacing the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and is able to quickly spread throughout the home.
It is also important to note that if the leakage 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 sliding. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are difficult to open, or are loose and open with ease it could be hinges at the fault. Anyone with the skills to fix them can replace the hinges in a matter of minutes.
Like any mechanical component, hinges can wear out over time. It is very easy to change a window hinge but it's much easier if someone helps hold the frame.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opened and closed in the correct direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates which way the window should be opened.
The problem can be caused due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photograph via our website and we will be pleased to offer you advice.
Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. This can be done by applying a light engineering oil on the hinges. We suggest window repair near me using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 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. The ideal time to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent-based oils are not recommended because they could damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, creating a gap where the sash and frame meet. They can be repaired by giving them a good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. Second, the interlock can be unbalanced. This is located on the hinge's side and might require to be cleaned. In some cases it is possible to replace the hinges.
These seals can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the windows made of upvc with low-emissivity lenses. This will help to regulate indoor temperatures and decrease draughts.
Another, and most effective ways to reduce drafts is to use a draught excluder, these are typically made of fabric that are filled with some sort of filler and can be placed on top of your windowsill. They will help keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!
Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. However, it is important to realize that all windows have a life span and there may come the point when it's more efficient to replace them than fix them. If you encounter any issues with your upvc window it is recommended to speak with an expert immediately.