UPVC Window Repairs
Your windows play an important role in both the appearance and energy efficiency of your house. However, they can become damaged or broken.
Window repairs are often less expensive than replacing an entire window. You can fix broken locks, defective hinges and handles.
1. Broken Glass
Windows that are cracked can let cold air in or cause drafts. Additionally, cracks can create safety issues particularly if you have young children. Luckily, it's simple to repair broken glass windows.
If you're facing a crack caused by a storm, or a window that was hit by a flying ball, the most important thing is to fix it quickly before it gets any worse. If the crack extends across more than one pane of glass or is large enough that you could place your hand inside it without risking bending or breaking the glass, then you might need to replace the entire window.
Start by putting on thick cut-proof gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from broken pieces. Tape over any cracks and shattered areas to keep the glass in place. Once the tape has been applied to the glass, gently tap it to loosen it and remove any large pieces. Put the remaining glass into an appropriate container to dispose of it.
Then, lay the sash on a flat surface, and remove the beading from the frame. This allows you to work with the glass. Utilizing the knife of a utility or deglazing tool, remove any sealant around the break. After the old glass has been removed and the rabbet is clean, you can scrub it to remove any sealant traces and then prepare the new glass.
It's a good idea to keep an item of paper close to the window to record the measurements needed to order replacement glass. This will ensure that you don't make mistakes when ordering replacement glass.
If the glass is replaced it is essential to use a premium silicone sealant, as this will help prevent water from leaking into your home. Use a polyurethane sealant on the sash's edge, which will add an additional layer of waterproofing. It is also important to ensure that the glass is tempered rather than annealed. This will add an extra layer of protection.
2. Fragmented Frames with Cracks
uPVC (un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) is a very popular option for double glazing window frames because it is strong and easy to maintain. However windows made from this material are not immune to damage and may experience many issues that require repair services to fix them.
One of the most common problems is cracking in the frame, which can occur for many reasons. A crack could be caused by hitting windows by a heavy object such as a ladder, or a garden tool. The frame could break or even come away from the wall. Alternatively, the cracks can form due to natural causes like swelling and shrinking of the uPVC over time.
Leakage from the window is a different issue. It can be caused by a variety of things like nail fins breaking or loosening and allowing air to enter the home. It is crucial to fix these issues quickly to prevent water infiltrating your home, as this could be a major issue if not dealt with.
In addition, if hinges of a window are misaligned or damaged, it could cause leaks and draughts. These hinges are responsible to compress the sash and seal in order to close the window tightly.
Another issue that is common is fogging of the glass. This can be caused by the seal between the glass separating enough to let air in and produce condensation. This can be fixed by resealing the glass.
There are several ways to avoid these types of repairs, including doing regular maintenance and regularly cleaning your windows with soapy water. For the best results and most reliable repair, select a reputable company that specializes in uPVC. They'll have the equipment and know-how to repair your windows quickly and efficiently.
Avoid slamming windows, since this could damage their frames and result in them losing insulation properties. Keep them away from direct heat as this can cause uPVC to break or warp.
3. Faulty locks or hinges
As time passes, upvc window frames can become stiff and the locks may not function effectively. This can be a hassle and leave your home feeling less secure. However, there are many solutions to these problems without the need to purchase a brand new window unit. Window repairs are often cheaper than purchasing windows in whole, which can save you a small fortune. Our skilled upvc window repair experts at Cloudy2Clear can repair your window handles, hinges or locks to ensure they function just as they should.
UPVC windows are a great option for home improvement projects due to their durability and energy efficiency. However, as with all things, they do become less durable over time and require regular maintenance to ensure the best results. It is good to know that fixing your UPVC windows or doors is a fairly simple procedure that can save you money in the long term.
Here are a few suggestions to help you repair your UPVC windows that aren't locking:
Verify the seals and locking gearbox. If the windows are not locking, you may have to adjust the frame. To do this remove the four screws holding the metal strip to the frame on the left side of the window. Each screw should be loosen by a full turn. Be careful not to loosen the screws holding the hinges -- these are designed to let the window open and shut and should not be tampered with.
Then next, move the sash a bit towards the left or right to find the location that best suits your needs. You may have to use shims in order to get the most optimal fit. Once you have found the ideal position, tighten all the screws and replace the plastic caps.
It is important to have a functional UPVC windows to ensure your comfort and safety. Don't hesitate to contact Window Geeks if you are having issues with your window. They offer free estimates, no call-out costs, and a 2-year guarantee on their work. Visit their website to find out more or give them a call! They serve Widnes, Runcorn, St Helens and Warrington.
4. Damaged Seals
uPVC windows are made to last. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, but they do have shortcomings. One of the most frequent problems that you may find with uPVC windows is condensation between the glass panes This could be an indication of a defective window seal or could be due to the high humidity in your home.
To prevent condensation from developing on uPVC windows you should avoid using colored cloths because they can leave stains of dye. Also, avoid cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals, as these could damage the uPVC frame. Use a white, soft cloth that has been soaked in some water to clean your windows. If you're concerned about stains or dirt building over the window frames it's worth buying a solvent PVC cleaning solution that is available in most hardware stores. This will aid in cleaning your windows as well as safeguard them from future damage.
Another issue you may find with uPVC window seals is that they may be damaged over time, upvc door repair near me and that's why it's important to replace them whenever necessary. This is an easy job that doesn't require the assistance of a professional. First, you'll have to take off the old seal from your window by pinching it and pulling it away. If the seal is very tightly bonded, you may use a builder’s knife to cut off a portion until it is easily removed from the window frame.
After removing the seal you can replace it. Make sure it is properly fitted into the grooves on the uPVC frame. Repeat this procedure on each side of the window until the seal has been completely inserted into the grooves. After this is done, you can check the corners of the window for gaps, if any, then apply more silicone sealant to fill the gaps and ensure that the window is fully sealed.