uPVC Window Repair
Despite being resistant to harsh weather, uPVC may develop issues that require fixing. Luckily these problems can be repaired easily at only a fraction of the cost of replacing windows.
It is common for windows to be difficult to open because its hinges are stiff. Fortunately, this problem can be easily fixed by lubricating the hinges using something similar to WD-40.
Broken or cracked glass
Glass is everywhere in our homes: on windows, doors and tables as well as in microwaves and stoves, even in frames for pictures. Windows can break from a well-hit ball or rough-housing between friends. They need to be fixed before they get worse. Cracks of this kind can be easily repaired without having to replace the window's glass or frame.
First, clean out the area with a damp cloth to get rid of any dust, dirt or fingerprints. Then, use an amount of epoxy to cover the the crack. Allow the epoxy to completely dry before moving your window. This repair is simple and will save you money replacing your uPVC window.
The gasket for the window can become soft or separate from the frame. This will result in a loss of insulation as well as a opening for cold air or water into your home. You can easily fix this problem by using a flat blade, such as a credit-card, to separate the gasket and the window frame. If you have a bit of time on your hands, you can also apply a bit of epoxy on the crack to make it appear like the crack did not exist in the first place.
Apply a piece of tape if the crack is too deep to reach with your fingers. This will prevent further damage. You could also use clear nail polish as a filler to stop the crack from expanding. It is important to start this process immediately after you detect the crack, or it will quickly spread and become more difficult to repair.
If you're looking for a more permanent solution consider using uPVC epoxy to fix broken or cracked glass. It is the most time-consuming alternative, but it will give the most effective results in terms of durability and appearance. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the epoxy and be sure to spruce the surface using a rag dampened with acetone after it has dried completely.
Water Leaks
uPVC Windows are durable however, they need some attention and maintenance. They can cause a myriad of problems if not maintained in a timely manner. These can range from leaks of water around frames, or condensation inside the glass units.
A reputable uPVC window repair expert can help to identify the issue and then fix it. They can also give suggestions on how to avoid it from happening again in the future.
Leaking uPVC Windows can be a major issue and should be repaired as soon as they begin to occur. If left unattended the damage can cause major damp problems for your home, resulting in expensive repairs and a reduction in energy efficiency.
In a majority of instances, a leaky uPVC window can be fixed by a simple leak patch. The sealant is sprayed inside the window to block water from getting into the home through the damaged area.
Misty or cloudy double glazed units are a sign that the seal inside the glass panes has failed. This can be caused by a variety of reasons, including wear and tear, aging weather conditions, or simply aging.
One way to prevent this is by having your windows cleaned regularly. It is recommended to clean your windows at least two times a yearly with white soft cloth that has been soaked in warm soapy water. Avoid using colored cloths, because they can leave stains of dye. Solvent PVC cleaner is the ideal way to remove stubborn stains. It can be bought at any hardware store. It is simple to use. Be sure to clean the window frames in a shaded area away from direct sunlight in order to avoid any streaking.
Faulty Hinges and Locks
Over time, a window hinge can be damaged or bent. This can lead to a gap form within the frame that allows in draughts, and reduce your energy efficiency. A draft can make your home feel uncomfortable and cold and result in higher heating costs.
A gap in a uPVC window is an issue that can be resolved easily. A uPVC window repair specialist will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix it for you. Usually, a small hole can be fixed with carpenter's glue and a wooden dowel that is inserted into the gap. The dowel must be positioned in such a way that it is in line with the leaf of the hinge, and has a smooth surface. Then, the glue of a carpenter is spread over the dowel of wood and tapped into the position. When it is dry it is possible to screw driven into it to fix the hinge leaf.
UPVC window hinges or locks may become stiff with time because of wear and tear or due to blockages created by dirt or dust. They should be cleaned and inspected frequently to ensure that they are working correctly. A lubricant like WD-40 should be used to keep the moving components in good condition.
It is recommended that UPVC windows be cleaned at least twice per year. The damp cloth should be dipped into a mixture of water and mild detergent. The corners of the window should be cleaned more frequently to prevent the accumulation of dirt and corrosion.
The handle of a uPVC window can also become stiff when opening or close. This could happen when the handle is thrown or if there is a problem with the locking mechanism. This is generally a quick and easy fix and can be accomplished by the homeowner themselves if they follow some simple steps.
A faulty lock can be an actual security risk since it indicates that your home is not secured and could be vulnerable to intruders. A damaged lock could make it difficult to open your uPVC door or window, which can be a hassle for you. A new handle or a adjustment of the multipoint locking mechanism could be required if this happens to be the situation.
Stuck Handle
If your upvc handle is stuck and becomes inoperable, it can be very frustrating. Especially when upvc window repairs try to open your window only to discover that it requires much more force or simply does not open at all. It is usually due to an electrical wire that is inside the handle holder, and has become rough. You can usually fix the problem by simply taking the handle off to examine the wire.
You can also fix this issue by using graphite or paraffin on the pole sliders. This will let the handle move upwards and downwards. It is also a great time to clean your handle because this will help prevent any further issues.
Superglue can be used to fix the button in the event that the issue is actually the push button. Make sure that the glue is completely dry prior to attempting to use it again. If the handle is damaged or broken it can be repaired by ordering a new one and then screwing it into the right place. This is a far simpler repair than replacing the entire window frame, and is something you can tackle yourself, particularly if have access to the appropriate tools.