15 Gifts For The Repairs To Upvc Windows Lover In Your Life
Repairs to uPVC WindowsuPVC is a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In contrast to aluminium and timber, they are not susceptible to rust or rot.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will save you from unnecessary repair costs and also improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
The damaged glass in your windows could cause severe damage to your home and even be fatal. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you're doing everything you can to ensure that your windows are in good repair.
For single pane windows, it is relatively easy to replace them, and the new window is usually able to fit into the frame of the previous one easily. However when you have double-pane windows that are held in place by internal beading it will be more difficult to remove the existing panes and install new ones. In this situation, it is necessary to purchase plastic spacers in order to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is essential if you plan to remove the glass yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a dropcloth before you start working on the glass so that any shards will fall onto the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they could be trampled on and cause further damage.
It's a good idea to tape the gap once the glass has been removed. This will keep drafts and water from getting into your property until a professional is able to repair the window. It also acts as a barrier, preventing any intruders from gaining entry to your home. If the distance between the window and the door is substantial, you may prefer a security screen that also has an opening. This will provide the best of both.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. Over time, they can develop a number of problems such as sagging. A sagging uPVC window can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you discover that your uPVC windows are sagging.
Repositioning the hinges could aid in fixing a window that is sagging. To accomplish this, you'll need open the window to get to the frame. With an screwdriver, remove the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Close your window to test the fit after you've relocated your hinges. If you're satisfied with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to keep them in place.
If you aren't able to move the hinges, you may need to replace the seal. Rubber seals can dry out and lose their elasticity over time, causing them to lose their tightness. If this happens, it's essential to replace the seal as quickly as possible to ensure your uPVC windows are watertight and safe from drafts.
uPVC handles may also loosen. Most often this is due to screws that have become loose over time. However, it can occur because the handle mechanism has worn out. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a loose uPVC window handle yourself. First, you'll need close the window and then perform an initial test to ensure that it fits. The joint at the corners here of the sash should be aligned with the joint on the casing. If it doesn't then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then reverse the mechanism back into its original position.
3. Water Leaks
It is crucial to take action if wake up every morning to find mouldy walls and wet floors. Leaks of water from windows can cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature inside your home. Most of the time, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.
It is a fairly easy fix that can be done by any skilled DIYer. Depending on the severity of the issue the caulking that was used up might need to be removed before a fresh layer can be applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, it is important to avoid over-caulking. This will make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.
Other indicators of water leakage include decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives under humid conditions and can propagate quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to keep in mind that if the leak originates from the glass of your double glazed windows, it's more likely to be an issue with the glass seal, rather than the frame or sliding. It is also possible to be repaired by a uPVC window specialist who will replace the glass seal and regain the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
Hinges may be to blame when your uPVC window is difficult to open or if it opens in a breeze. Anyone who is a skilled DIYer can fix hinges in just a few minutes.
Like any mechanical component hinges will wear out over time. It's very simple to change a window hinge but it's much simpler if you have someone to help you hold the frame.
Check that the uPVC hinges are open and closed in the proper direction. Look for the arrows that are on each hinge to determine the direction in which the window should be opened.
The problem with the hinges on windows could be caused by improperly opening the window a certain way or by improper installation in the factory. This issue can be fixed by sending us a photo via our website and we will be more than happy to give you advice.
Regularly lubricating hinges is also essential. This can be done by applying an oil that is light in nature to the hinges. We suggest using a solvent-free lubricant, such as the 3-in-one Multi-Purpose oil. Regularly lubrication makes the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the chance of windows sticking and help prevent corrosion. This should be done at least every year. WD40 and other solvent-based lubricants are not recommended as they can cause damage to your uPVC windows.
5. Draughts
Draughts can be caused by a variety of different causes. The hinges can also become unbalanced due to wear, causing a gap where the sash and frame meet. This can be easily fixed by giving them a good clean, but in the event that they are beyond repair it might be necessary to get them re-aligned or replaced. The second is the interlock, which is on the hinge side of the window and can be misaligned. Again, it's possible to just give them a good clean, but in some cases it might be necessary to have these replaced.
The second most frequent cause of draughts is the window seals. These can become worn down or damaged over time, and let air escape through these gaps. This can be prevented by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Another alternative is to replace the upvc window with glass that is low-emissivity, which will help regulate indoor temperatures, and also reduce the possibility of draughts.
Lastly, one of the most effective ways to reduce draughts is by using an draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric that are filled with some type of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. These will help to keep cold air out and keep your home warm and cosy!
Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to recognise that windows last for a certain period of time and there may come a point where it is more economical to replace them than fix them. If you are experiencing issues with your Upvc windows, it is recommended to seek help from a professional immediately.