Repairing UPVC Windows
uPVC windows are a fantastic choice for your home. They help keep the heat inside your home during the winter, and cool air outside in the summer. However, they can be damaged due to a variety of causes and require repairs.
Repairing windows made of upvc may not be as difficult as you think. Broken handles, squeaky hinges and cracked glass are the most common problems.
Squeaky Hinges
The uPVC windows are a great option for modern homes because they're durable, strong and require little maintenance. These windows also have a number benefits for homeowners, including sound insulation and thermal insulation. If you're thinking of installing windows like these in your home, you need be aware of possible problems that can occur periodically.
Squeaky hinges are among the most common problems that uPVC window frames can run into. This problem occurs when the window's sash moves against the frame when it's open and closed. This is usually caused by a build-up dirt, corrosion and residue which makes it difficult for the window wheels to move effortlessly. In the majority of cases, this problem can be solved by spraying the hinges WD-40 Specialist 300g High Performance Silicone Lubricant.
This lubricant assists the sash to move effortlessly against the frame, and it also reduces the whistling sound that could occur. However, if the problem is due to something more serious, it may be best to contact an experienced double glazing window installation business that can provide you with an alternative replacement for your damaged window.
Draughts are a different issue that can be encountered with uPVC windows. There are often hollow spaces which allow air to move between the window frame and the opening. This is a problem that can occur in windy weather. This could cause loss of heat and raise the cost of energy. It's therefore important to ensure that your uPVC window can form an even seal when shut.
You should also regularly clean your uPVC window. It is recommended to clean them four to eight times a year with a white soft cloth that is soaked in warm soapy water. Avoid cleaning them in direct sunlight to avoid streaky glass. If you're using a cleaner, make sure that it doesn't contain dyes, as they can stain uPVC.
If you're looking to install new uPVC windows or replace windows that are already in place, Oridow can help you determine the best solution for your home. Our technicians can advise you on what kind of uPVC is ideal for your home, and can answer any questions you might have.
Broken Handles
With time and regular use, window handles may be damaged or even broken. This can be a frustrating problem, particularly when it makes the handle difficult to open the window. If the handles on your windows aren't functioning properly it is important to fix the issue as soon as possible. This will ensure that your windows are safe and that you can open them easily.
If your window handle is damaged, it may be an easy fix to replace the part that causes it to work. This can be done at an affordable price and is a good option when your handle isn't anymore working in the way it should. It's crucial to ensure that the handle you select is compatible with both the type of window and locking mechanism. This shouldn't be too difficult to do.
One common reason for a window handle not to function is that the drive spindle inside has moved out of its position. This can be quite easy to fix, but the trick is to ensure you're using the right tool to complete the task. You shouldn't use a power-tool, because it could damage the handle and the window frame. Make use of a hand-held screwdriver instead because it is more comfortable to hold and less likely cause damage.
Another issue that can be found is that the shoot bolt (espag gear) isn't able to connect with the handle gearbox. It is recommended to contact an expert in window repair if you encounter this issue to ensure that the issue can be resolved before more water gets in.
You can fix this problem by shifting the shoot bolt. To do so put a right-angled wrench into the space between the window frame and glass. Try to hook the roller cam by pushing the tool past the area you think the roller cam will be. If this does not work, it is likely that the shoot bolt is disconnected from the handle gearbox and needs to be replaced. You can buy a replacement shoot bolt from most hardware stores.
Frames that are damaged
UPVC is among the most popular materials used for window frames as it's hard wearing and energy efficient. It is also low maintenance. In time, UPVC can become damaged and requires repair. Repairs include damaged sills, frames, leaky seals, and broken handles. Repairs are typically simple but can vary in cost dependent on the size of the window as well as the kind of repair needed.
uPVC frames can be affected by everyday wear and tear as well as weather. This can result in the surface of UPVC becoming scratched or discoloured. This can be caused either by using a cleaner that is harsh on the window or by accidentally dropping something heavy against the frame. It is essential to have this problem fixed as soon as possible to avoid the scratch marks and blemishes from permanently damaging the look of your home.
Wood is a different material that is commonly used in window frames, but may also be afflicted by the same problems as UPVC. To avoid this you should apply regular wood protection to the frames and sills of your windows. If you observe that the wood is rotting and causing water leaks or air drafts that enter the window. To check if the wood is rotting you can simply push an screwdriver into the wood to see if it slides into the wood easily.
It is possible to repair a few of the sashes and frames made of wood but can also be a challenge if the rot has advanced considerably. This means the sash or frame may have to be replaced, which is a more costly option.
Unlike UPVC and a wooden frame is much more prone to split or crack as time passes due to swelling and shrinkage by moisture and heat. This can cause gaps and holes that require to be filled with filler. It's also important to have the wood professionally stained or treated to protect it from moisture and prolong its lifespan.
It is difficult to open the window
Upvc is a fantastic choice for your home because it is durable, requires minimal maintenance and provide excellent insulation. This does not mean that they'll never face issues. Many issues can be solved without the need for a professional.
If you're finding that your window is hard to open, it could be due to a jammed or seized handle. If this is the case, you should try to loosen it by hand. If that does not work then you can try using pry bars. Put a piece of wood in the frame's direction to give the pry bar leverage. Then slowly push it up, allowing the shoot bolts and roller cams to move back into the open position. Repeat this process until you're able to fully open the window.
Another reason why windows are difficult to open is that it is stuck against the frame. This can happen if the frame is damaged or has been painted unevenly. In this situation, you'll need to remove both the window sash as well as the rope that connects it. Then, you will need to clean the frame and sash, and employ an utility knife or sander to smooth rough areas.
The degrading of the gasket made of rubber can also cause problems. The seal allows cold air into the house, and warm air out, leading to increased heating costs. To prevent this from happening sash windows repair you must replace the old seal. This is a simple job that you can do yourself.
Maintaining your uPVC window properly is the key to avoiding common issues. It is crucial to regularly clean the frames using a nonsmear glass cleaning solution. This will stop dirt and grime from accumulating and causing the handles to become stiff and the hinges to vibrate. It is also recommended that you grease the moving parts of the window regularly. You can do this with WD-40, solvent PVC cleanser. Also, you should be sure to check frequently that the drain holes and vents do not get blocked.