Hassle free cleaning, high-quality proofing and long durability are some of the major reasons why people install UPVC windows in their homes. However, as in the case of other windows, they also deteriorate over time. Efficient maintenance is, therefore, essential.
UPVC windows come with moving parts that can break or fail to function properly. You can find it difficult to acquire new parts in case the windows are more than 10 years old. Another major issue with these types of windows is the breakdown of double glazing seals. You can know that this has occurred when you come across a cloudy patch on the interior surface of the sealed unit. When they are manufactured, the glass units are equipped with hermetic sealing. As a result, the air between two glass panes is trapped and cannot move.
The latest sealed units are filled with inert gas prior to sealing, thereby checking the cold air from outer pane from getting into the inner pane. They also prevent the warm air within a room from escaping through the glass. UPVC windows often get stuck. In some cases, the problem is caused by the handle that may be quite old and become nonfunctional. If you find that only one part of the window is stuck, then it is highly likely that the handle has broken and needs to be replaced.
Use a pallet knife and put it between the window frame and opening by lifting the handle. Apply some pressure at the top to off the opening to open it. If you fail to do so, then do the same from the other side. If this still doesn’t work, then you should remove the glass from the frame. To do so, you will need to remove the beading that holds the glass within the frame. You will come across packets at both ends of the glass. Pull them out, and tilt it a bit up and down, to release it from the locking point. You can also consider applying furniture polish on them for greater flexibility.
Regular cleaning forms a vital part of UPVC window maintenance. Therefore, make it a part of your daily routine to apply a mixture of soap and warm water to scrub the windows. Utilize clean water to remove the soap. To remove stains, you can use a diluted gleach mixture. To clean the glass panes, you will need to make use of a specialised glass window cleaner. Once you start following the tips mentioned above with care, the lifespan of your UPVC windows will increase significantly.