Problems with Plastic Windows and Ways to Eliminate Them

Today, PVC structures have gained well-deserved popularity. Plastic windows have many advantages and only a few disadvantages, which can be divided into two types: structural and acquired.

Design problems include poor assembly or, in other words, manufacturing defects. Purchased ones include poor-quality installation of windows or their improper operation.

This article will reveal the circumstances of the occurrence of problems in plastic windows, namely: the formation of condensation, loss of tightness, the occurrence of ice, the appearance of mold, failure of fittings, and will describe ways to solve them.

Problem #1. Condensation Formation

The appearance of condensation on plastic windows is associated with a disruption of the process of normal air exchange in the room. There are two types of such “crying”:

temporary;
permanent.

The most harmless thing is temporary. In this case, condensation occurs due to increased humidity in the room. Very often this phenomenon can be observed in the kitchen, while cooking with the window closed - the glass is completely covered with tiny droplets of condensation. This problem can be solved quite simply - by ensuring high-quality ventilation of the room: either by turning on the hood or opening the frame (setting it to ventilation mode), or by installing a ventilation valve on a plastic window that independently regulates the ventilation process and maintains the optimal level of humidity in the room.

The situation is more complicated with the constant accumulation of condensation that forms on the same areas of glass. In fact, this indicates the presence of serious problems associated with the installation of the structure. Poor-quality installation of a plastic window is especially noticeable in winter - condensation inevitably appears in the corners of the glass unit, which over time transforms into ice. Moreover, the colder it is outside, the larger the area of ice buildup. To get rid of such freezing of plastic windows, you will need to seek the help of professional window installers. There are two ways to solve the issue associated with the appearance of condensing moisture on glass.

The first and least expensive is replacing a low-quality seal. The second method is the most radical - installing the light-transmitting structure in a new way, from beginning to end. Of course, the solution to the problem with condensation, which includes changing the plastic window, is good for the apartment owner only if the window is under warranty. If the warranty period has expired, then you need to decide what would be better: put up with the periodic occurrence of condensation (ice), or seriously spend money and completely replace the PVC structure.

Vertical and horizontal adjustment of the sash of a plastic window structure

Adjustment is carried out using the lower loop, under the protective cap of which there is a hexagon. By rotating it, you can adjust the position of the sash:

if clockwise, the window will rise;
if counterclockwise, it will go down.

This way you won't need to move the frame. But you can adjust the top hinge only when the plastic window is open. The sash is attracted to the hinge as the hexagon rotates clockwise and raises the bottom of the structure, and when rotated in reverse, the sash moves back and the corner moves down.

Both hinges are adjusted in the same way, and this can be done both from the outside with the doors closed and from the inside when the door is open, respectively.

Problem #2. Mold occurrence

The formation of mold on windows is a direct consequence of the constant presence of condensation. It is worth noting that the appearance of mold can occur not only in the area of glass insertion, but also in the area of window slopes.

It is no secret that over time, a poorly installed slope, under the base of which moisture penetrates, begins to become covered with mold from the inside. The problem begins to get worse if the mold “spreads” to the face of the slope.

Blitz survey: When choosing a plastic window, what is important to pay attention to? From the articles you can learn how to choose plastic windows depending on the design and heat and sound insulation characteristics.

The appearance of a plastic window spoiled due to mold is not so bad. The most unpleasant thing is that constant exposure to such a fungus has a very detrimental effect on the health of people who spend a significant amount of time indoors. Watch the acclaimed Channel One film about the effects of mold on the human body, and you will understand why it is so important to fight these bacteria not only in the window area, but throughout the entire apartment.

Expert commentary

Vladislav Dobronravov

Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company

To resolve the issue of eliminating the causes of mold formation, it is necessary to act comprehensively - use several removal methods at once.

If the fungus appears in the area of the slopes, you should foam all the cracks through which water seeps under these slopes, simultaneously ensuring good air ventilation in the room. It is the combination of two methods that will provide the best result when mold occurs on the slopes of a plastic window.

If the source of infection is located on the window frame, then to solve the problem it will be enough to treat the affected area with a special solution sold in any hardware store, as well as provide regular and sufficient ventilation.

How much do professional services cost?

If you can’t repair the double-glazed window yourself, you can contact a specialized company. To do this, it is better to familiarize yourself with the average prices for repairs:

Simple and complex window sash adjustments - from 300 to 1000 rubles per unit.
Window wedging and adjustment – 800 rubles.
Opening a locked sash costs 500 rubles.
Cleaning and lubrication of fittings - from 150 rubles, with the same procedure, but with the removal of the sash - from 1200 rubles.
Cleaning and lubrication of the seal - from 80 rubles per meter.
Replacement of fittings – 5000 rubles.
Replacement of a handle – from 500 rubles.
Replacing the seal - from 180 rubles per meter.

The cost of service will differ in different regions of Russia; they also depend on the company itself and the components it works with.

Problem #3. Violation of tightness

Most often, the cause of a leak in the tightness (the appearance of blowing) of modern plastic windows is a manufacturing defect or errors during the installation of the structure. In the first case, the responsibility should be borne by the manufacturing companies, and those responsible for unprofessional installation should be sought in the company that did the installation.

The main reason for the window’s poor performance of its functions can be identified independently, especially if you know its most problematic areas:

Cracking of the bounding profile due to poor quality material (plastic).
Poor fitting of fittings or installation of fasteners that do not ensure ideal pressing of the sash to the frame base.
The bead designed to secure the glass unit does not fit tightly, which is why cold air penetrates into the room. Sometimes the glazing beads shrink during severe frosts and therefore move away from the glass unit.
The installed structure is poorly foamed.
The window frame is installed with a deviation, which creates a gap when closing the sashes.

If you notice one or more of the listed signs, there is no need to worry. If the window is still under warranty, the manufacturer or installer is obliged to eliminate these defects absolutely free of charge. If the service period has expired, then you should contact a window company with a good reputation - most of them carry out window repairs of any complexity.

links to materials supplementing this article: Glazing a house with corner windows. Is it worth doing?

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How to assess the condition of the locking strip of a plastic window?

If the window striker plate is worn out, the sash may not fit evenly in the window frame. To do this, you need to inspect the slats around the perimeter of the window from all sides. You can adjust the slats this way:

open the window and remove the plugs from the adjusting bolts, having first loosened them using a hexagon;
adjust the sash towards the frame at the top, then at the bottom, moving the sash in the desired direction;
check the adjustment for tightness and uniformity of closing of the sash.

Problem #4. Hardware failure

To have an idea of what window fittings are, it is advisable to read the relevant article presented on our website.

So, a malfunction of the fittings can most often manifest itself in the form of a jammed handle, or the inability to turn it smoothly. In the first case, the problem is usually solved by disassembling the handle, in the second - by lubricating the moving parts that bring the window to the “locked” position.

Expert commentary

Vladislav Dobronravov

Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company

WD-40 lubricant, sold at any auto parts store, is perfect for these purposes.

In order to have a more complete understanding of possible hardware malfunctions and ways to solve them, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the following video:

How to properly adjust the window pressure?

The clamp represents the tightness of the window structure; to check it, close it and apply a match. If the flame begins to fluctuate, close the gap by adjusting the eccentrics that are located around the perimeter of the structure. If you turn the handle, they will move onto the pressure pads.

To make the pressure on a plastic window correct, you need to move the eccentric clockwise and press the frame against the sash, and if you need to make it weaker, then turn it in the opposite direction.

It is not recommended to change the location of the eccentrics too much; a maximum shift of a couple of millimeters is permissible. To make them move, use a wrench or pliers.

In some cases, adjustment can be made using special plates. To do this, find a clamping mechanism with a tongue. If it is extended, the sash is pressed tightly and, vice versa, if not enough.

In the warm season, it is recommended not to press the doors too hard and to loosen the eccentrics during the heat.

Problem #5. The appearance of ice

The formation of a crust of ice at the junction of glass and frame is a consequence of either poor air exchange in the room or poor-quality installation of the window. In the first case, the problem is solved quite simply - by periodically airing the room. In the second case, either by replacing the seal or by re-installing the structure.

If ice appears on the slopes, this indicates the presence of cracks under the base of the slopes. Such cracks are dangerous not only because moisture enters and accumulates in them, subsequently changing its state of aggregation to solid, but also because a favorable environment for the formation of mold is created in the cracks.

What to do in this case? It is necessary to attend to the dismantling of the slopes. After removing them, the window opening should be treated with an anti-mold agent (see above), and the cracks should be filled with polyurethane foam.

What does plastic window repair mean?

The term “window repair” means the replacement of damaged or unsatisfactory parts of the glass unit, frame, and sashes. This also includes :

adjustment of fittings;
replacement of components;
repair of locking and turning mechanisms.

Repair of plastic windows also includes replacement, installation, restoration of:

window sills;
low tides;
slopes;
visors.

Repairing plastic windows can be complex or simple - superficial. Complex repairs mean those actions with a metal-plastic window that cannot be performed by an ordinary person with the help of home tools.

These are such events:

replacing broken glass;
replacing the seal;
repair of freezing and blowing;
repair or restoration of mosquito nets, window sills, ebbs.

For example, when replacing broken glass, an apartment owner is unlikely to be able to do it on his own at home. In this case, you need to call a specialist, he will remove the old double-glazed window, take measurements for the new one, and after a while he will come and install the new glass.

The same applies to replacing the seal: if it becomes unusable, then the windows become a source of cold, but only a specialist with the proper experience can replace it.

There are also simple repairs that you can do yourself. This includes adjusting the sashes, cleaning windows from debris and dust, tightening fittings, lubricating mechanisms, and repairing handles. Of course, every apartment owner cannot cope with the entire list of tasks, but you can try.

Problem prevention: window care

Today, there are several simple, but at the same time effective ways to avoid problems with windows. First of all, we are talking about the prevention of possible malfunctions and the care of plastic structures. Let's list the main ones:

Washing windows is allowed only with detergents that do not contain abrasives and “vigorous” components that can destroy the structure of the surface layer of the plastic window profile. Window cleaning is usually done with a sponge dipped in soapy water.
Prevention of hardware malfunctions should be carried out at least once a year. It includes lubrication of the moving parts of the fitting mechanisms along the entire contour of the window, and not just in the handle area. Let us remind you that lubrication can be done with WD-40 machine oil.
Periodic maintenance of the seal is also important. Once or twice a year it needs to be wiped and lubricated with a glycerin-based product.
If possible, it is advisable to remove the protective film covering the window profile from the outside of the window. Otherwise, under prolonged exposure to sunlight, the film will interact with the plastic every year and disrupt the structure of its surface.
Once a year, it is necessary to clean the gap between the frames from sand and dirt accumulated there. For these purposes, it is best to use a vacuum cleaner (without an attachment).

Which parts of the PVC frame most often need adjustment?

Most often, owners have questions about repairing the following parts of plastic windows:

profile;
frame;
sash;
seal.

Problems often arise with the PVC profile. Serious faults include :

cracks on the surface;
deformation of the frame or sash.

You can no longer cope with such a task on your own; you will have to call a specialist. Minor scratches and abrasions on the sash can be removed on your own using special cosmetics.

Deformations and cracks may also occur on the frame, which should be addressed by a professional. There is such a problem as the sash sagging and clinging to the frame. Then the solution will be standard regulation of window fittings - you can handle this yourself.

A sagging sash is one of the most common problems and can be eliminated by adjusting the hinges with a simple hexagon.

Problems with the seal may also occur. It may be damaged in several places or completely unusable. Then you need to call specialists to replace the part.

When to replace?

For example, if a plastic window does not open. As soon as the windows begin to function differently than before during installation, they immediately require checking and adjusting the incoming elements. If this is not done in time, then loosening and damage to the parts of PVC windows will continue to occur and the entire window panel may need to be replaced. Damaged fittings can cause problems with the window such as drafts, freezing of glass, extraneous sounds entering the room, noise from the street, condensation and dust settling on the windows.

You can correct the following faults on your own, which lead to the above-mentioned consequences: a broken handle and a bevel of the sash in height or in relation to the frame. Plastic windows need adjustment.

Removing blockages

Sometimes the fittings of a plastic window do not work correctly. The first time this happens, it appears that the window is broken, although this is usually not the case. This situation cannot even be called a repair. We just need to get everything back to working order.

The handle does not turn

Sometimes, in some position, the handle of a plastic window “gets stuck” and does not want to turn. Usually the reason is the activation of the blocker. This is a plate that is located near the handle on the side of the frame. The shape of the plate varies among different hardware manufacturers.

Types of blockers on PVC windows

To correct the situation with the handle, you need to return the lock to its normal position. If it is in the form of a long plate, press on the moving part and place it vertically, then turn the handle. Then everything should work fine. Sometimes a plastic window blocker looks like a small tongue. We also press on it and turn the handle to the required position.

If this “treatment” does not help, you need to check whether the blocker fits into the mating part (pictured above). Sometimes, due to heat or cold, inconsistencies begin. If the tongue does not reach the mating part, you need to move it a little closer. The counter plate is unscrewed (there are two bolts), a plate the size of the counter part of the blocker is cut out of white thin plastic, and it is installed between the frame and this plate. If the plastic sticks out somewhere, carefully trim it with a sharp knife. The window should now close.

The sash hangs only on the bottom hinge

This situation occurs if the window is opened in both tilt and tilt modes at the same time. Don’t panic, leaving the sash open, we press the top edge against the frame. Having aligned the top edge with the loop, turn the handle to the “open” position - horizontally. If it does not turn, turn off the blocker.

The plastic window fittings did not work correctly

Close the sash, turn the handle down to the “closed” position. Slowly check the operation in all positions. There are still a lot of nuances associated with blowing from under the window, but all of them are solved mainly through adjustment.

So how to live beyond 5 simplest ways to quickly solve the problem of crying windows.

Ventilate more often

Your task is to achieve adequate humidity and temperature in the room. Make it a habit to ventilate your apartment (especially the kitchen) more often, and this alone may be enough to stop the windows from leaking.

The optimal air temperature is not lower than 20C

Optimal relative humidity – no more than 45%

Important! In winter, it is better not to use micro-ventilation to prevent the window fittings from icing up.

Turn on the fan

Yes, yes, the same one that you usually turn on in the summer, when it’s hot. Point it at the window and turn it on at minimum speed. To achieve the effect, we need air movement near the glass and in this simple way we will achieve it.

Car anti-fog aerosol

Why not? An excellent alternative solution if all other methods are for some reason unavailable to you or do not work. The problem will not be radically solved, but it will definitely get better.

Repair the hood

Windows leak if it is clogged and does not function well. This is a very common problem with old houses or new ones with homemade exotic remodeling from neighbors.

What to do if the window is blowing from under the rubber seal

There is such a part in the PVC window fittings as an eccentric or trunnion. By turning it, you can eliminate this problem. But to do this, stock up on a four-point hex wrench. Here again there are minor differences depending on the type of fittings, but the essence is the same.

Step-by-step instruction.

For the "Roto" version, look at the strike plates,
Find the place approximately in the middle where the hexagon fits,
use the key to turn the element,
If you see the inscription "Winkhaus", grab the trunnion with your fingers and turn it
For options like “AUBI”, “Sigenia”, also find on the door where to put the key,
And turn the roller so that the point located on it is closer to the elastic.

Keep in mind that the sash pressure depends on how close this point is to the seal. And in the summer it is better to return the eccentric to its place so that the rubber does not wear out.

If nothing works out after the first option, then the eccentric simply does not fit into the right place. This can be corrected by changing the position of the plate. Unscrew the bolts that secure the strike plate and adjust it so that the roller fits exactly under it. If none of what has been done helps, you won’t be able to do without the experts.

Causes of damage

The most common cause of window defects is poor installation and poor quality material.
Sometimes the shortcomings that appear are influenced by human factors. For example, chips, cracks and holes in glass can appear due to careless handling of the window.
A common cause is incorrect glass production technology.
Problems with fittings arise due to the age of the material or due to improper care. Street dirt often collects in this part or mold forms.

Important! To avoid problems with fittings and drainage holes, you must follow the operating instructions and clean the window regularly.

Heat loss

The heat-saving properties of a window largely depend on the thickness of the profile; the number of chambers in the profile is not so significant. But the main heat loss occurs through the double-glazed window, and it occupies a large area of the window - about 90%. And if ordinary glass is installed, then no matter what the profile is - six- or three-chamber - the thermal insulation will be poor.

Energy-saving double-glazed windows

It is best to install windows with energy-saving double-glazed windows - the glass has a special low-emission coating applied to it, which reflects heat back into the room. Double-glazed windows with low-emissivity glass are absolutely transparent, from the point of view of aesthetics and natural light they are no different from ordinary ones, but from the point of view of heat saving efficiency they are twice as high as a traditional double-glazed window.

There is another option - installing a double-glazed window (three glasses and two chambers between them). However, it should be noted that it is quite heavy (32 kg/sq.m), which can lead to sagging of the sashes. In addition, the glass may begin to resonate with each other, and the glass unit will begin to hum due to street noise. Many manufacturers fill the chambers with argon instead of air. But as practice shows, after 2–3 years it disappears.

We adjust the pressure and set up summer and winter modes

For tightness and good pressure, a seal is installed in the plastic window. Such an elastic band may perform its job worse during operation. Drafts, poor sealing, and too much audibility may occur.

The same problems can arise from external influences, such as temperatures. But the clamp in the plastic window can be changed:

To do this, find an eccentric (trunnion) at the end - this is a cylindrical part, slightly moved forward.
Turn the trunnions inside the window to increase the pressure, and outside to decrease it.

To adjust the clamp using an eccentric, you need to determine the brand of fittings. And based on this, get to work:

If there is a recessed strip on the trunnion, turn it with a screwdriver,
Having fixed it with your fingers or pliers, you can scroll it or move it.

It is recommended to work out eccentrics in this way even as part of prevention. This should be done approximately once every 6 months. This way you can monitor the condition of the seal and influence its wear.