What's The Fuss About UPVC Window Repair?
upvc windowsAlthough uPVC windows are hardy and resistant to harsh weather conditions they may still have problems that require fixing. Luckily these problems are easily fixed at less than the cost of replacing a window.
It is common for a window to be difficult to open due to the hinges aren't as strong. Fortunately, this issue can be easily fixed by lubricating hinges with something like WD-40.
Cracked or broken glass
Glass is everywhere in our homes: on doors, windows, tables in stoves and microwaves even in frames for pictures. The windows of your home can be damaged from a well-hit ball or rough-housing among friends. They need to be repaired before they worsen. Luckily, these types of cracks are simple to repair without the need to replace the window glass or frame.
First, clean out the area using a moist cloth to get rid of any dust, dirt or fingerprints. Then, use a small amount of epoxy to cover the area around the crack. Allow the epoxy to fully dry before moving the window. This is a straightforward repair that will help you save the expense of replacing your uPVC windows.
Another issue that is common to uPVC windows is that the gasket of the window becomes soft or detached from the frame. This could lead to loss of insulation and the entry of cold air, or even water into your home. This can be easily fixed by using an abrasive blade like an ATM card to cut the gasket from the window frame. If you have the time, you can add a bit of epoxy to the crack, so that it looks like it never existed.
If the crack is larger than you are able to reach with your fingers, apply a piece of tape to protect the area from further damage. You could also use clear nail polish as a filler to stop the crack from spreading. The key is to do this as soon as you notice the crack, otherwise it will spread quickly and become more difficult to repair.
If you are looking for a more permanent fix, consider uPVC epoxy. It's the most time-consuming solution, but will provide the highest results in terms of strength and appearance. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to apply the epoxy, and make sure to clean the surface using an acetone-soaked rag once it is fully dried.
Water Leaks
Upvc windows are very robust, but they do require some maintenance and attention. They can cause a variety of issues if not maintained properly. These issues can range from leaking water around the frame, to condensation within the glass units.
A reputable uPVC window repair specialist can help to identify the issue and fix it. They can also provide advice on how to avoid repeating the issue in the future.
Leaking uPVC Windows are a serious problem that should be fixed as soon as they occur. If ignored, the damage could cause significant damp problems for your house, which can lead to expensive repairs and a decrease in energy efficiency.
A leaky uPVC is often fixed with a patch. The sealant is placed inside the window to block water from entering the home through the damaged area.
Cloudy or misty double-glazed units indicate that the seal inside the panes of glass has failed. This can be caused by various causes, including age, weather conditions or just wear and tear.
You can avoid this by having your windows regularly cleaned. It is recommended to clean windows at least twice per year using a white cloth that has been soaked in warm water and soap that is liquid. It's important to avoid using any colored cloths as they can leave dye stains on the plastic. Solvent PVC cleaner is the ideal way to remove stubborn stains. It is available at any hardware store and is simple to apply. To avoid streaking, wipe the window frames clean of direct sunlight in a shaded area.
Faulty Hinges and Locks
Over time, a window hinge can be damaged or bent. This can lead to an opening in the frame, which can allow draughts in and reduce energy efficiency. A draft can make your home feel cold and uncomfortable and result in higher heating bills.
A gap in a uPVC window is an issue that can be fixed fairly easily. A uPVC window repair expert will be able to pinpoint the problem and fix it. Usually, a small hole can be fixed with carpenter's glue and a dowel of wood inserted into the gap. The dowel must be positioned in a manner that it is in line with the leaf of the hinge, and has a smooth surface. The carpenter's adhesive is then spread on the dowel, and then tapped into position. Once it is dry and cured, a screw is installed to fix the hinge.
UPVC window hinges and locks can become stiff to open and close over time because of general wear and tear, or due to obstructions caused by dirt and debris. They should be cleaned and inspected frequently to ensure that they're working properly. A lubricant such as WD-40 is suggested to keep the moving parts in good working order.
It is recommended to wash UPVC windows at least two times per year. This should be done using a damp cloth that has been dipped into an emulsion of mild soap and water. To avoid dirt and rust clean the the corners more frequently.
The handle of a uPVC window can also become stiff to open or close. This is a possibility if the handle is dropped or if there is a problem with the locking mechanism. This is usually a simple and easy fix and can be done by the homeowner themselves when they follow a few simple steps.
A faulty lock can be a serious security risk because it indicates that your home is not secured and could be vulnerable to robbers. A faulty lock can also make your uPVC door or window difficult to open, which could cause a hassle for you. If this is the case you might need a new handle or to adjust the multipoint locking system.
Stuck Handle
If your upvc handle gets stuck and unable to move, it can be a frustrating. Especially when you try to open your windows and find that it requires a lot more force or simply does not open at all. This is usually due to an electrical wire that is inside the handle holder and has become rough. You can usually solve the issue by pulling the handle out to examine the wire.
You can also solve this issue by using graphite or paraffin on the pole sliders. This will allow the handle to move up and down. It is also an ideal time to give your handle a good clean as this will help keep any issues from occurring with it.
Superglue can be used to fix the button if the issue is actually the push button. Superglue should be completely dry prior to applying it to the next. If the handle has been completely damaged or is broken, you can replace it by requesting a replacement and then screwing it in place. It is easy to fix this yourself if you have the proper tools.