uPVC windows are an excellent option for modern homes. They are easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. They are not susceptible to rot or rust like aluminum or timber.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating UPVC windows and doors is essential. This will prevent unnecessary repair costs as well as increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is broken it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, which can make it very dangerous and potentially fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good working order.
Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they typically fit into frames of the past easily. However, if windows with double panes are anchored by internal beading, it will be more difficult to take out the old panes and put in new ones. In this situation you'll need locate some plastic spacers that aid the new pane in being able to fit correctly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must for anyone who plans to remove the glass by yourself. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a dropcloth before you begin working on the glass so that any shards fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trodden under and cause further damage.
It's a great idea to cover the gap with tape after the glass is removed. This will stop water and drafts from entering your property until a professional comes out to fix the window. It also acts as a barrier that will prevent any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the distance between the door and the window is significant, you may prefer security screens that has a window. This will give you the best of both.
2. Sagging
Upvc windows and doors are an affordable energy efficient, durable and long-lasting alternative to timber sash windows. As time passes, they may develop a number of problems that include sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to shrink, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from getting worse.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. To do this, you'll have to open the window to get to the frame. After that, using the screwdriver, you'll be able to take off 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 repositioned your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit, you can tighten the screws to ensure they stay in place.
If you cannot reposition 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. It is essential to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window waterproof and draughtproof.
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 fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and do an initial fitting. The corners of the sash should be aligned with the casing joint. If it doesn't, you can use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the handle and return the mechanism to its original the position it was in.
3. Water Leaks
If you awake to damp floors and mouldy walls each time it rains it's important to 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 of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is a fairly simple fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer can be applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you should be careful not to over-caulk. This will make your window harder to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
It is important to check 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 situations, you might need to consider replacing the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage include rotted sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. This fungus thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly throughout the house.
If the leakage is occurring between the double-glazed glass, it is more likely the problem is related to the seal, not the frame. Again this can easily be corrected by an uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges could be the reason when your uPVC window is difficult to open or it blows open with a breeze. They can be easily replaced by any competent DIYer and can usually be completed in a matter of minutes.
Almost every household in the UK will have either top hung or side hung uPVC windows that are hinged and like any mechanical part they will wear out over time. The process of replacing a hinge on a window is essentially a simple procedure, but it is easier to do if you have someone to help you hold the frame in place.
It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the right direction. Look for the arrows on each hinge to determine which way the window should be opened.
The problem can be caused either due to opening the window in the wrong way or a faulty installation in the factory. Sending us photos via our website is often enough to solve the issue. We are always happy to provide advice.
It is also crucial to grease the hinges regularly. This can be accomplished by applying a light engineering oil to the hinges, we recommend using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication can make the window easier to open and close. It also decreases the risk of a window sticking and help prevent corrosion. window repairs milton keynes is recommended to do this once a year. WD40 and other solvent based lubricants are not recommended as they can damage the parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different things. The hinges, also because of wear and tear, may become displaced, which causes gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good clean, but when they're beyond repair, it may be necessary to get them aligned or replaced. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it's possible to just give them a clean but in certain cases, it may be necessary to have them replaced.
These seals can wear down or get damaged over time, allowing air to escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the window with glass that is low-emissivity, this will help to regulate indoor temperatures and again will lessen draughts.
The last way to reduce drafts effectively is to use a Draught-exclusion device. These are typically fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be placed over your window sill. They can help block out cold air and keep your home warm and cozy!
Your windows made of upvc will remain a great source of insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is important to remember that all windows will eventually wear out and it is cheaper to replace them than to repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc window you should consult a professional as soon as you can.
