How To Survive Your Boss In Repairs To Upvc Windows
How To Survive Your Boss In Repairs To Upvc Windows
Blog Article
Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They don't rot or rust like aluminum or timber.
Cleaning and lubricating regularly UPVC windows and doors is crucial. This will reduce repair costs as well as improve energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it could cause a large deal of damage to your home, making it extremely dangerous and possibly fatal. You should take the time to make sure that your windows are in good shape.
Single-pane windows are relatively simple to replace, and they generally fit into frames that were previously in use very easily. If you have double-paned windows which are joined by internal beading, it will be more difficult to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this case, you will need to locate some plastic spacers to aid the new pane in being able to fit properly into the window frame.
Wearing eye protection and heavy gloves is a must if you plan to remove the glass by yourself. It is also recommended to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass, so that any shards will fall onto the fabric rather than on the floor where they can be trampled on and cause further damage.
It's a good idea to seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will stop water and drafts from entering your property until a professional is able to fix the window. This also serves as an obstruction to prevent criminals from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you might want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window as this will offer 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, including sagging. A sagging uPVC windows could cause issues with light, draughts, and even security. It's important to take action as soon as you realize that your uPVC windows are sliding.
To repair a window that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. You'll first need to open the windows so you can access the frame. With an screwdriver, take off the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or counter-clockwise. Once you've adjusted the hinges, close your window and check for fitting. 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 may need to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and become dry which causes them to loosen. If this happens, it's important to replace the seal as soon as possible so that your uPVC windows are waterproof and secure from draughts.
uPVC handles could also loosen. Often it is due to screws that have come loose over time. However, it can also happen because the handle mechanism has been worn out. It's relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC handle. First, you'll need to close the window and then perform a test fit. 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 then return the mechanism to its original position.
3. Water Leaks
It is important to act if you get up each morning to find a smoky wall and wet floors. The leaks of water through windows could cause structural damage to your home and affect your ability to regulate the temperature of your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by a damaged or missing sealant.
This is an easy fix that can be accomplished by anyone who is a DIYer with the skills. Depending on the severity of the problem the old caulking may need to be removed before a new layer of caulk is applied. When it is time to uPVC repair, you must avoid over-caulking. This will make your window more difficult to clean and reduce its energy efficiency.
It is essential to ensure that any drainage holes are clear of debris and that the sill pan is placed in a way that allows it to get more info drain away from the window. In more extreme instances, you may need to replace the window.
Other signs of long-term water leakage are decayed sills and the appearance of black spots of mold on the wall near the window. This fungus thrives under conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the home.
It is also important to note that if the leakage is coming from between the glass in your double glazed windows, it is more likely to be a problem with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. This can be easily fixed by a uPVC window specialist who can replace the glass seal and restore the full insulation properties of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are stiff to open, or are loose and blow open with ease It could be hinges that are at fault. These are easily repaired by any DIYer who is skilled and are usually done within a few minutes.
Like any mechanical component hinges will be damaged over time. It is very easy to replace a hinge on a window however it is easier if someone else helps you to hold the frame.
It is also worth checking that the uPVC hinges are opening and closed in the correct direction. You can check this by looking for the arrow on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should open.
Faulty window hinges could be the result of incorrectly opening the window in a certain way or by poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture through our website can often solve the issue. We are more than happy to give advice.
It is also important to ensure that the hinges are lubricated regularly. Applying a light engineering lubricant to the hinges is a good method of doing this. We recommend using an oil that does not contain solvents, such as 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also stop corrosion and decrease the chance of sticking. This should be done at least 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 several different things. First, the hinges due to wear and tear could become misaligned. This causes gaps to develop between the sash and the frame. If they are beyond repair, it could be necessary to get them re-aligned. Secondly the interlock, this is located on the hinge side of the window, can be misaligned. Again, it may be possible to give them a thorough clean, however in certain cases, it may be necessary to get them replaced.
The next most common reason for draughts is window seals, these are prone to wear or damaged over time, and will allow air to escape through the gaps. 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 the risk of draughts.
Another method of reducing drafts effectively is to use a Draught-excluder. These are usually made of fabric tubes filled with a filler which can be put on top of your window sill. These will keep your home warm by blocking out cold air.
Your upvc windows can keep providing excellent insulation and security to your home by performing regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to realize that all windows have a life span and eventually, they will reach a point where it is more cost-effective to replace them rather than fix them. If you are having issues with your upvc windows, it is always best to seek professional assistance as soon as you can.