Replacing accessories in plastic windows does not cause any difficulties even for an inexperienced person, provided that they are familiar with the existing features of the work. This reduces the likelihood of failure of parts and the glass. The choice of a new mechanism requires special attention, since it has many important nuances.
When do you need to replace accessories
The most common problems encountered when using plastic windows are as follows:
- water and dust entering the room through the sash;
- low level of sound insulation;
- freezing of window construction;
- the occurrence of a draft.
All this indicates the presence of defective or failed mechanisms. Adjusting the handle and hinges most often eliminates such problems. If nothing has changed after it, you will have to buy and install new mechanisms. There is also a need for repair in case of violation of the handle and the skew of the window structure.
After the first signs of a malfunction are detected, the hardware must be replaced immediately, since damage to the frame and sashes is possible with prolonged use of failed components.
Before starting work, you need to understand what kind of hardware is needed. The best option is to buy devices that are identical to those that are already installed. Due to this, you can avoid the situation when the elements are unsuitable, as well as reduce the time spent on installation. With a thorough inspection of the mechanism, you can find the manufacturer's markings. In case of its absence, the elements must be removed and, having arrived at the store, ask the consultant to find similar ones.
What is required for installation
The replacement of accessories in plastic windows with your own hands, despite all its simplicity, requires a certain set of tools:
- L-shaped keys;
- hexagons;
- pliers;
- slotted and Phillips screwdriver;
- grease (automotive or silicone).
The most necessary are L-shaped stars, it is advisable to purchase them in advance. In some cases, there is a need for open-end wrenches having a small thickness.
Hardware Replacement: Progress
Due to its heavy use, the window handle breaks more often than other elements. Dismantling the old device and installing the new one are carried out according to the following algorithm. To begin with, the decorative plastic insert is pushed back to provide free access to the mounts. The screws that hold the handle are unscrewed with a Phillips screwdriver. Now it remains only to mount a new handle.
The need to replace the hinges is less common, and repairs are carried out easily and quickly.
The decorative trim is removed, for this it is enough to pull it up with a little effort. The hinges with a hexagon or Phillips screwdriver are separated from the wings and the frame itself. For assembly, the reverse procedure is performed. The axis of rotation of the device is dismantled in a similar manner.
Difficulties are possible if the loop itself, and not its cylinder, is out of order. And if at first replacing the accessories of plastic windows does not cause difficulties, then the installation of a new part takes a lot of time. Sometimes the holes on the acquired loop do not correspond to the fasteners on the frame, in this case it is necessary to make new ones. To do this, holes are drilled in the designated places of the window frame using a special template. Inadmissible errors can be avoided when drilling through a template, and not by marks. Before starting work, it is necessary to study the internal structure of the frame so as not to damage the design of the glass packet.
How to extend the service life
Like any other device, plastic windows require systematic care. For example, so that the replacement of accessories is carried out as rarely as possible, it must be cleaned and lubricated twice a year. Such preventive actions take a little money and time, while they provide an increase in the period of operation of the structure and all elements. Silicone-based grease is applied to moving parts, it does not damage the material and gives greater mobility. Seals also require periodic cleaning and lubrication.