Maintaining and refurbishing PVCu windows - Revision history

Editor: moved Refurbishing PVCu windows to Maintaining and refurbishing PVCu windows

2024-02-26T19:57:56Z

moved Refurbishing PVCu windows to Maintaining and refurbishing PVCu windows

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Revision as of 19:57, 26 February 2024

Editor at 19:57, 26 February 2024

2024-02-26T19:57:12Z

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Designing Buildings at 07:16, 23 March 2023

2023-03-23T07:16:45Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:16, 23 March 2023
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	[[File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg]]

−	In the event that it is not possible to replace the external weather seals and they have shrunk a little over time, one work around is to instal ~~and~~ extra rubber seal to the outside of the window unit lifting the surface at the point where the original seal makes contact. This helps improve the external seal around the window reducing ~~possibilities for~~ insects, weather and drafts ~~to enter~~ the frame. Once installed close the unit and check the seal is firm from the outside. This is in many ways a temporary work around as over time the external draft excluder may loose adhesion through weathering, a longer lasting solution is to source the correct weathering seal, potentially slightly larger in size and replace like for like.	+	In the event that it is not possible to replace the external weather seals and they have shrunk a little over time, one work around is to instal an extra rubber seal to the outside of the window unit lifting the surface at the point where the original seal makes contact. This helps improve the external seal around the window reducing the possibility of insects, weather and drafts entering the frame. Once installed close the unit and check the seal is firm from the outside. This is in many ways a temporary work around as over time the external draft excluder may loose adhesion through weathering, a longer lasting solution is to source the correct weathering seal, potentially slightly larger in size and replace like for like.

	[[File:PVCu_10_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_10_replacement.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_10_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_10_replacement.jpg]]

−	Finally give ~~those~~ windows a clean, to improve the daylight into the room ~~and admire the work~~. Close all windows on a windy day to see if there ~~continues~~ to be any cold or ~~draft spots~~ through the window. This can be further highlighted by using a smoke pencil or simple a candle set up on the inside nearby the closed window.	+	Finally give the windows a clean, to improve the daylight into the room. Close all windows on a windy day to see if there continue to be any cold or drafts through the window. This can be further highlighted by using a smoke pencil or simple a candle set up on the inside nearby the closed window.

	= Linear bridges =		= Linear bridges =
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	[[File:Window_draft_Thermal_image_.jpg\|link=File:Window_draft_Thermal_image_.jpg]]		[[File:Window_draft_Thermal_image_.jpg\|link=File:Window_draft_Thermal_image_.jpg]]

−	Thermal imaging can help expose the weak points and linear thermal bridges around a window frame, indicating that seals may need replacing or cleaning and reinstalling. It may also be possible to adjust the closers or hinges ~~of you window unit~~ to allow it to close more tightly.	+	Thermal imaging can help expose the weak points and linear thermal bridges around a window frame, indicating that seals may need replacing or cleaning and reinstalling. It may also be possible to adjust the closers or hinges to allow it to close more tightly.

	= Reveals and curtains =		= Reveals and curtains =

−	[[File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg\|link=File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg]]Thermal imaging can also further assist in highlighting weak spots around the window reveal, where a window reveal is not insulated for example or a pitched ceiling has low levels of insulation. These can both be improved by retrofitting internal insulation, or increasing loft insulation (above the window). Thick heavy ~~weaved~~ curtains can help reduce the radiant coolth coming into the room and can have a positive effect on localised comfort~~, even~~ if thin curtains are used, they can to some extent have the same effect as shown in the example above right.	+	[[File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg\|link=File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg]]Thermal imaging can also further assist in highlighting weak spots around the window reveal, where a window reveal is not insulated for example or a pitched ceiling has low levels of insulation. These can both be improved by retrofitting internal insulation, or increasing loft insulation (above the window). Thick heavy weave curtains can help reduce the radiant coolth coming into the room and can have a positive effect on localised comfort. Even if thin curtains are used, they can to some extent have the same effect as shown in the example above right.

	= Related articles on Designing Buildings =		= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

Designing Buildings at 07:13, 23 March 2023

2023-03-23T07:13:42Z

Designing Buildings at 07:04, 23 March 2023

2023-03-23T07:04:22Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:04, 23 March 2023
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−	~~Whilst many~~ people ~~today~~ might ~~like~~ to exchange their ~~potentially now~~ ageing ~~PVCu~~ windows, by installing new higher performing ones, especially in light of higher and fluctuating energy costs and climate change. ~~Often~~ as a result of rented accommodation, practicality and the significant capital cost investment, more often than not PVC windows may remain in place for many years~~, and by now, as they have been around a while this may~~ even be decades.	+	= Introduction =
		+
		+	Many people might choose to exchange their ageing PVC windows, by installing new, higher performing ones, especially in light of higher and fluctuating energy costs and climate change. However, often as a result of rented accommodation, practicality and the significant capital cost investment, more often than not PVC windows may remain in place for many years or even be decades.

	= Lifespan of PVC units =		= Lifespan of PVC units =

−	In around 2006 BRE re-assessed the 25 year lifespan they had given PVC windows as part of their assessment for the initial Green Guide for specification, carrying out a desk study, concluding that this could be increased up to 35 years. However it stressed ~~strongly~~ as part of this, that the double glazed units themselves, the gaskets, the weather strips ~~as well as~~ the mastic seals, may need to be replaced during this time ~~along with~~ the ironmongery ~~being~~ well maintained and lubricated. In most cases PVC or PVC-u windows ~~were~~ seen or sold as a fit and forget solution, with no maintenance or painting required! In the light of high energy costs, high material costs, a drive to reduce waste, and remain economically circular, ~~here~~ is some simple guidance on how ~~you might~~ refurbish windows to improve their performance, save a ~~little~~ energy, improve comfort and ~~potentially~~ extend their life for little or no cost.	+	In around 2006 BRE re-assessed the 25 year lifespan they had given PVC windows as part of their assessment for the initial Green Guide for specification, carrying out a desk study, and concluding that this could be increased to up to 35 years. However it stressed as part of this, that the double glazed units themselves, the gaskets, the weather strips and the mastic seals may need to be replaced during this time and the ironmongery should be well maintained and lubricated. In most cases PVC or PVC-u windows had been seen or sold as a fit and forget solution, with no maintenance or painting required.
		+
		+	In the light of high energy costs, high material costs, a drive to reduce waste, and remain economically circular, below is some simple guidance about how to refurbish windows to improve their performance, save a energy, improve comfort and extend their life for little or no cost.

	= Cleaning the glazing =		= Cleaning the glazing =

Editor at 14:00, 22 March 2023

2023-03-22T14:00:44Z

Show changes

Editor at 05:01, 21 March 2023

2023-03-21T05:01:57Z

Editor at 19:30, 20 March 2023

2023-03-20T19:30:22Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:30, 20 March 2023
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	* U-values.		* U-values.
	* Window.		* Window.
−	*
	* Window cleaning services using pure water.		* Window cleaning services using pure water.

	[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Operations]]		[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Operations]]

Editor at 18:29, 20 March 2023

2023-03-20T18:29:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:29, 20 March 2023
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	[[File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg\|link=File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg]]Thermal imaging can also further assist in highlighting weak spots around the window reveal, where a window reveal is not isnulated for example or a piched ceiling has low levels of insulation. These can both be improved by retrofitting internal insulation, or increasing losft insulation (above the window). Thick heavy weaved curtains can help reduce the radiant coolth coming into the room and can have a positive effect on localised comfort, even if thin curtains are used, as in the example above right.		[[File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg\|link=File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg]]Thermal imaging can also further assist in highlighting weak spots around the window reveal, where a window reveal is not isnulated for example or a piched ceiling has low levels of insulation. These can both be improved by retrofitting internal insulation, or increasing losft insulation (above the window). Thick heavy weaved curtains can help reduce the radiant coolth coming into the room and can have a positive effect on localised comfort, even if thin curtains are used, as in the example above right.
		+
		+	= Related articles on Designing Buildings =
		+
		+	* Accredited construction details ACDs.
		+	* Achieving sustainable futures with thermal imaging.
		+	* Air draught.
		+	* Air permeability testing.
		+	* Air tightness in buildings
		+	* Draught proofing.
		+	* Draughts in buildings.
		+	* Energy audit.
		+	* G-value in buildings.
		+	* Leaks in buildings.
		+	* Polyvinyl chloride PVC.
		+	* Polymers in construction.
		+	* Plastic in construction.
		+	* Thermal bridge.
		+	* Types of window.
		+	* U-values.
		+	* Window.
		+	*
		+	* Window cleaning services using pure water.
		+
		+	[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Operations]]

Editor at 18:21, 20 March 2023

2023-03-20T18:21:08Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:21, 20 March 2023
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	[[File:PVCu_2_dirty_window.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_2_dirty_window.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_2_dirty_window.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_2_dirty_window.jpg]]

−	= ~~Seals~~ =	+	= Weather seals and gaskets =

	Some of the key performance issues that can occur over years of use and might be unavoidable relate to the weather seals and gaskets, as well as the glazed units them selves. It is also worth checking the installation at the edges where it is fixed to the wall or window reveal, in the worse cases this can let drafts in and should be sealed. It is also possible to introduce a thin layer of insulation to the outside and inside of the frame against the reveal to reduce the linear thermal bridging at these locations, not covered in this section.		Some of the key performance issues that can occur over years of use and might be unavoidable relate to the weather seals and gaskets, as well as the glazed units them selves. It is also worth checking the installation at the edges where it is fixed to the wall or window reveal, in the worse cases this can let drafts in and should be sealed. It is also possible to introduce a thin layer of insulation to the outside and inside of the frame against the reveal to reduce the linear thermal bridging at these locations, not covered in this section.
−
−	~~= Weather seals and gaskets =~~

	Weather seals and gaskets are the internal and external often black rubber looking seals. They may be made of a variety of materials including perchloroethylene (PEC), ethylene propylene diene monomer synthetic rubber (EDPM), as well as silicone or in newer windows neoprene or even felt. Older windows will tend to have the former with a lifespan up to around 10 years , though can also be as little as 5 years.		Weather seals and gaskets are the internal and external often black rubber looking seals. They may be made of a variety of materials including perchloroethylene (PEC), ethylene propylene diene monomer synthetic rubber (EDPM), as well as silicone or in newer windows neoprene or even felt. Older windows will tend to have the former with a lifespan up to around 10 years , though can also be as little as 5 years.
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	= Linear bridges =		= Linear bridges =

−	[[File:~~Window draft Thermal image~~ .jpg]]	+	[[File:Window_draft_Thermal_image_.jpg\|link=File:Window_draft_Thermal_image_.jpg]]

	Thermal imaging can help expose the weak points and linear thermal bridges around a window frame, indicating that seals may need replacing or cleaning and reinstalling.		Thermal imaging can help expose the weak points and linear thermal bridges around a window frame, indicating that seals may need replacing or cleaning and reinstalling.
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	= Reveals and curtains =		= Reveals and curtains =

−	[[File:~~Window curtain Thermal image~~.jpg]]Thermal imaging can also further assist in highlighting weak spots around the window reveal, where a window reveal is not isnulated for example or a piched ceiling has low levels of insulation. These can both be improved by retrofitting internal insulation, or increasing losft insulation (above the window). Thick heavy weaved curtains can help reduce the radiant coolth coming into the room and can have a positive effect on localised comfort, even if thin curtains are used, as in the example above right.	+	[[File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg\|link=File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg]]Thermal imaging can also further assist in highlighting weak spots around the window reveal, where a window reveal is not isnulated for example or a piched ceiling has low levels of insulation. These can both be improved by retrofitting internal insulation, or increasing losft insulation (above the window). Thick heavy weaved curtains can help reduce the radiant coolth coming into the room and can have a positive effect on localised comfort, even if thin curtains are used, as in the example above right.

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:13, 23 March 2023
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	= Cleaning the glazing =		= Cleaning the glazing =

−	One of the primary tasks of windows is to let in daylight, so don't forget to clean them ~~! Because up~~ to 15% of the daylight factor can be lost through dirty windows (this may though in turn reduce the G-value from over heating perspective as it reduces solar heat gains ~~but that's no excuse!~~). Daylight levels can impact mood and health as well as electricity use from lighting, so it is good to keep windows clean ~~not only for appearances~~. If you live on a higher floor take care and work in pairs, and although obvious to some, remember many windows have features to help you, such as restrictor releases.	+	One of the primary tasks of windows is to let in daylight, so don't forget to clean them. Up to 15% of the daylight factor can be lost through dirty windows (this may though in turn reduce the G-value from an over heating perspective as it reduces solar heat gains). Daylight levels can impact mood and health as well as electricity use from lighting, so it is a good idea to keep windows clean. If you live on a higher floor take care and work in pairs, and although obvious to some, remember many windows have features to help you, such as restrictor releases.

	= Releasing restrictors =		= Releasing restrictors =
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	[[File:PVCu_5_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_5_restrictor.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_5_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_5_restrictor.jpg]]

−	Many windows have restrictors incorporated into the design, especially in rented accommodation, these are important safety features to reduce the risk of accidents ~~or falling~~. Restrictors restrict the amount a window can open, so that is can let sufficient air in but remain closed enough to minimise risks of falling. If you are unsure of safety issues, seek professional advice.	+	Many windows have restrictors incorporated into the design, especially in rented accommodation, these are important safety features to reduce the risk of accidents. Restrictors restrict the amount a window can open, so that they can let sufficient air in but remain closed enough to minimise risks of falling. If you are unsure of safety issues, seek professional advice.

	[[File:PVCu_6_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_6_restrictor.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_6_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_6_restrictor.jpg]]
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	[[File:PVCu_7_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_7_restrictor.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_7_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_7_restrictor.jpg]]

−	Once released the hinge should open, allowing an arms width on both sides of the window. In many cases the runner in which the hinge sits will be dirty and should be cleaned, whilst the hinge and runner itself may need oiling to allow it to open fully. This function allows widows to be cleaned more easily, both inside and out~~, once~~ cleaned it is a good idea to add a little more oil and close, making sure the restrictor is back place by testing a second time.	+	Once released the hinge should open, allowing an arms width on both sides of the window. In many cases the runner in which the hinge sits will be dirty and should be cleaned, whilst the hinge and runner itself may need oiling to allow it to open fully. This function allows widows to be cleaned more easily, both inside and out. Once cleaned it is a good idea to add a little more oil and close, making sure the restrictor is back place by testing a second time.

	= Maintenance issues =		= Maintenance issues =

−	Through lack or maintenance dirt can collect in the frame of the widow and settle on the gaskets, preventing the window from closing and sealing correctly, gaskets can also shrink or degrade, creating weathering issues, cold drafts and heat loss. In the worst cases pests such as cluster flies, ~~who~~ are attracted to the warm spaces in the window frame can get access through poorly closing seals, make their home in the window and ~~breed~~, causing an ~~small~~ infestation.	+	Through lack or maintenance dirt can collect in the frame of the widow and settle on the gaskets, preventing the window from closing and sealing correctly, gaskets can also shrink or degrade, creating weathering issues, cold drafts and heat loss. In the worst cases pests such as cluster flies, which are attracted to the warm spaces in the window frame can get access through poorly closing seals, make their home in the window and breeding, causing an infestation.

	[[File:PVCu_1_dirty_window.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_1_dirty_window.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_1_dirty_window.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_1_dirty_window.jpg]]

−	Cleaning regularly and checking for broken or weak seals can help prevent this~~, preventing flies from entering the window reveals in the first place~~. If you have these kind of issues it is a good time to refurbish and clean your window frames ~~aswell~~ as your windows..	+	Cleaning regularly and checking for broken or weak seals can help prevent this. If you have these kind of issues it is probably a good time to refurbish and clean your window frames as well as your windows..

	[[File:PVCu_2_dirty_window.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_2_dirty_window.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_2_dirty_window.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_2_dirty_window.jpg]]
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	= Weather seals and gaskets =		= Weather seals and gaskets =

−	Some of the key performance issues that can occur over years of use ~~and might be unavoidable,~~ relate to the weather seals and gaskets, as well as the glazed units ~~them selves~~. It is also worth checking the installation at the edges where it is fixed to the wall or window reveal, in the worse cases this can let drafts in and should be sealed. It is also possible to introduce a thin layer of insulation to the outside and inside of the frame against the reveal to reduce the linear thermal bridging at these locations~~, often referred to as an installation psi value, though this not covered in this section~~.	+	Some of the key performance issues that can occur over years of use relate to the weather seals and gaskets, as well as the glazed units themselves. It is also worth checking the installation at the edges where it is fixed to the wall or window reveal, in the worse cases this can let drafts in and should be sealed. It is also possible to introduce a thin layer of insulation to the outside and inside of the frame against the reveal to reduce the linear thermal bridging at these locations.

−	Weather seals and gaskets are the internally and externally installed, often black rubber looking seals. They may be made of a variety of materials including perchloroethylene (PEC), ethylene propylene diene monomer synthetic rubber (EDPM), as well as silicone or in newer windows neoprene or even felt in timber windows. Older windows will tend to have the former materials with a lifespan up to around 10 years, though can also be as little as 5 years depending on the quality and level of exposure.	+	Weather seals and gaskets are the internally and externally installed, often black rubber looking seals. They may be made of a variety of materials including perchloroethylene (PEC), ethylene propylene diene monomer synthetic rubber (EDPM), as well as silicone or in newer windows neoprene or even felt in timber windows. Older windows will tend to have the former materials with a lifespan up to around 10 years, though they can also be as little as 5 years depending on the quality and level of exposure.

−	The external seal protects against the weather, such as driving wind and rain and internal seal helps reduce drafts~~, both~~ can perish after a number of years and should be checked annually. Gaskets or seals are normally preformed to suit the window design and there are many hundreds of different extrusions available. Weather seals and gaskets can be replace provided the correct extrusion can be found, you can also seek professional help in doing this or do it yourself by removing the seal and carefully purchasing a like for like design.	+	The external seal protects against the weather, such as driving wind and rain and the internal seal helps reduce drafts. Both can perish after a number of years and should be checked annually. Gaskets or seals are normally preformed to suit the window design and there are many hundreds of different extrusions available. Weather seals and gaskets can be replace provided the correct extrusion can be found, you can also seek professional help in doing this or do it yourself by removing the seal and carefully purchasing a like for like design.

	= Glazed units =		= Glazed units =

−	The glazed units ~~themselves~~ are ~~single~~ closed units of different specifications~~, if~~ the glass is clear without water or dirt between te sheets then the unit may still perform ~~similar~~ to the original specification. If the unit contains water or dirt it is likely the seal of the unit is broken or the unit has blown~~, this~~ will reduce the thermal performance of ~~that~~ unit, but it is possible to replace individual units with new sealed units or potentially higher specification units such as thin triple glazed units.	+	The glazed units are closed units of different specifications. If the glass is clear without water or dirt between the sheets then the unit may still perform close to the original specification. If the unit contains water or dirt it is likely the seal of the unit is broken or the unit has blown. This will reduce the thermal performance of the unit, but it is possible to replace individual units with new sealed units or potentially higher specification units such as thin triple glazed units.

−	Argon fill double glazed units are quite common as the thermal conductivity of Argon is around 1/3 lower than that of air, which creates a performance difference of ~~something like between~~ 2.6 w/m2K for argon-filled cavity unit and 2.8 w/m2K for air filled unit. However it is worth noting that even well made argon ~~fill~~ windows are likely to leak the gas at a rate of around 1% per year or higher for poorer quality windows.	+	Argon fill double glazed units are quite common as the thermal conductivity of Argon is around 1/3 lower than that of air, which creates a performance difference of around 2.6 w/m2K for an argon-filled cavity unit and 2.8 w/m2K for an air filled unit. However it is worth noting that even well made argon filled windows are likely to leak the gas at a rate of around 1% per year or higher for poorer quality windows.

	= Deep cleaning =		= Deep cleaning =
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	[[File:PVCu_4_cleaning.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_4_cleaning.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_4_cleaning.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_4_cleaning.jpg]]

−	If it is not possible to replace the gaskets or weather strips, they can also be removed cleaned thoroughly and replaced. Ensure the outside of the unit is cleaned removing markings from where the window closes.	+	If it is not possible to replace the gaskets or weather strips, they can also be removed cleaned thoroughly and replaced. Ensure the outside of the unit is cleaned, removing markings from where the window closes.

	[[File:PVCu_8_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_8_replacement.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_8_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_8_replacement.jpg]]

−	Once clean, the gaskets can be replaced as well as the latch locks. In this case a small foam insert was laid into the frame, to reduce dirt and potentially improve thermal performance, though be careful not to block drainage channels~~, so this is optional~~. Some research suggests scents such as mint or lavender can repel flies, so can be added at this point at least to initially discourage flies from immediately returning after refurbishment.	+	Once clean, the gaskets can be replaced as well as the latch locks. In this case a small foam insert was laid into the frame, to reduce dirt and potentially improve thermal performance, though be careful not to block drainage channels. Some research suggests scents such as mint or lavender can repel flies, so can be added at this point at least to initially discourage flies from immediately returning after refurbishment.

	[[File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:01, 21 March 2023
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	= Lifespan of PVC units =		= Lifespan of PVC units =

−	In around 2006 BRE re-assessed the 25 year lifespan they had given PVC-u windows as part of their assessment for the initial Green Guide for specification, carrying out a desk study, concluding that this could be increased up to 35 years. However it stressed strongly as part of this that the double glazed units themselves, the gaskets, the weather strips as well as the mastic seals, may need to be replaced during this time as well as the ironmongery well maintained and lubricated. In most cases ~~PVCu~~ windows were seen or sold as a fit and forget solution, with no maintenance or painting required! In the light of high energy costs, high material costs, a drive to reduce waste, and remain circular here is some simple guidance on how you might refurbish your own windows to improve their performance, save a little energy, improve comfort and potentially extend their life for little or no cost. .	+	In around 2006 BRE re-assessed the 25 year lifespan they had given PVC-u windows as part of their assessment for the initial Green Guide for specification, carrying out a desk study, concluding that this could be increased up to 35 years. However it stressed strongly as part of this that the double glazed units themselves, the gaskets, the weather strips as well as the mastic seals, may need to be replaced during this time as well as the ironmongery well maintained and lubricated. In most cases PVC-u windows were seen or sold as a fit and forget solution, with no maintenance or painting required! In the light of high energy costs, high material costs, a drive to reduce waste, and remain circular here is some simple guidance on how you might refurbish your own windows to improve their performance, save a little energy, improve comfort and potentially extend their life for little or no cost. .

	= Cleaning the glazing =		= Cleaning the glazing =
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	[[File:PVCu_6_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_6_restrictor.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_6_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_6_restrictor.jpg]]

−	Most restrictor designs will have a release to allow them to be more ~~easiiy~~ cleaned, the mechanisms will vary but in most cases it is a small latch, which is labelled. In this case the latch is pressed to release the hinges to allow the window to opening more widely.	+	Most restrictor designs will have a release to allow them to be more easily cleaned, the mechanisms will vary but in most cases it is a small latch, which is labelled. In this case the latch is pressed to release the hinges to allow the window to opening more widely.

	[[File:PVCu_7_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_7_restrictor.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_7_restrictor.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_7_restrictor.jpg]]
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	[[File:PVCu_3_cleaning_.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_3_cleaning_.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_3_cleaning_.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_3_cleaning_.jpg]]

−	To clean the frame ~~thouroghly~~ is is best to remove fittings that can easily be removed such and latch locks, this helps reveal ~~diret~~ spots and if the window suffers cluster fly infestation it can expose eggs and larvae. The ~~glaxing~~ frames should be ~~cleaner~~ using soap and water and ~~potential~~ also a sprit cleaner when dry, ~~remving~~ all dirt.	+	To clean the frame thoroughly is is best to remove fittings that can easily be removed such and latch locks, this helps reveal dirt spots and if the window suffers cluster fly infestation it can expose eggs and larvae. The glazing frames should be cleaned using soap and water and potentially also a sprit cleaner when dry, removing all dirt and grease.

	[[File:PVCu_4_cleaning.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_4_cleaning.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_4_cleaning.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_4_cleaning.jpg]]

−	If it is not possible to replace the gaskets or weather ~~stips~~, they can also be removed cleaned thoroughly and replaced. Ensure the outside of the unit is cleaned removing markings from the gasket markings ~~ofthe~~ closed window.	+	If it is not possible to replace the gaskets or weather strips, they can also be removed cleaned thoroughly and replaced. Ensure the outside of the unit is cleaned removing markings from the gasket markings of the closed window.

	[[File:PVCu_8_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_8_replacement.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_8_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_8_replacement.jpg]]

−	Once clean, the gaskets can be replaced ~~aswell~~ as the latch locks. In this case a small foam insert was laid into the frame, to reduce dirt and potentially improve thermal performance, though be carful not to block drainage channels. This is optional. Soe ~~reserach~~ suggests scents such as mint or lavender repel flies, so can be added at this point at ~~leastto~~ initially discourage flies from returning after refurbishment.	+	Once clean, the gaskets can be replaced as well as the latch locks. In this case a small foam insert was laid into the frame, to reduce dirt and potentially improve thermal performance, though be carful not to block drainage channels. This is optional. Soe research suggests scents such as mint or lavender repel flies, so can be added at this point at leas tto initially discourage flies from returning after refurbishment.

	[[File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_9_replacement.jpg]]

−	In the event that it is not possible to replace the external weather seals and they have shrunk a little over time, one work around is to ~~install~~ and extra rubber seal to the outside of the window unit lifting the surface at the point where the original seal touches the frame. This helps improve the external seal around the window reducing ~~possibiliies~~ for ~~inescts~~, weather and drafts to enter the frame. Once installed closed the unit and check the seal is goo from the outside. This is in many ways a temporary work around as over time the external draft excluder may loose adhesion through weathering, a longer lasting solution is to source the correct weathering seal, ~~potenially~~ slightly larger in size and replace.	+	In the event that it is not possible to replace the external weather seals and they have shrunk a little over time, one work around is to instal and extra rubber seal to the outside of the window unit lifting the surface at the point where the original seal touches the frame. This helps improve the external seal around the window reducing possibilities for insects, weather and drafts to enter the frame. Once installed closed the unit and check the seal is goo from the outside. This is in many ways a temporary work around as over time the external draft excluder may loose adhesion through weathering, a longer lasting solution is to source the correct weathering seal, potentially slightly larger in size and replace.

	[[File:PVCu_10_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_10_replacement.jpg]]		[[File:PVCu_10_replacement.jpg\|link=File:PVCu_10_replacement.jpg]]

−	Finally give those windows a clean, to improve the daylight into the room and admire the work. Close all windows on a windy day to see if there continues to be any cold or ~~drafty~~ spots through the window. This can be further highlighted by using a smoke pencil or simple a candle.	+	Finally give those windows a clean, to improve the daylight into the room and admire the work. Close all windows on a windy day to see if there continues to be any cold or draft spots through the window. This can be further highlighted by using a smoke pencil or simple a candle.

	= Linear bridges =		= Linear bridges =
Line 77:		Line 77:
	= Reveals and curtains =		= Reveals and curtains =

−	[[File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg\|link=File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg]]Thermal imaging can also further assist in highlighting weak spots around the window reveal, where a window reveal is not ~~isnulated~~ for example or a ~~piched~~ ceiling has low levels of insulation. These can both be improved by retrofitting internal insulation, or increasing ~~losft~~ insulation (above the window). Thick heavy weaved curtains can help reduce the radiant coolth coming into the room and can have a positive effect on localised comfort, even if thin curtains are used, as in the example above right.	+	[[File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg\|link=File:Window_curtain_Thermal_image.jpg]]Thermal imaging can also further assist in highlighting weak spots around the window reveal, where a window reveal is not insulated for example or a pitched ceiling has low levels of insulation. These can both be improved by retrofitting internal insulation, or increasing loft insulation (above the window). Thick heavy weaved curtains can help reduce the radiant coolth coming into the room and can have a positive effect on localised comfort, even if thin curtains are used, as in the example above right.

	= Related articles on Designing Buildings =		= Related articles on Designing Buildings =