Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window doesn't close, it creates draughts and allows heat to escape. This also reduces the security of your home and puts you at greater risk of burglary.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges handles, seals and handles can be damaged. If this is the case, it could affect how your windows work and could invalidate any warranty you may have.
Locks that aren't working
Many people put anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates however, they forget that windows are also the most frequent targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause draughts, let valuable heat escape, and reduce the security of your home.
If you find that your uPVC windows locks do not work, it is likely that the mechanism of the lock is jammed. This is typically due to a split in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to turn 360 degrees but not open. This issue is typical of uPVC windows, however it is also a problem in tilt-and-turn windows and sliding sash window.
If this happens, unlock the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can be used to unlock the gearbox and reopen the window's opening. If this method does not work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are internal locking systems which secure the window by using mushroom-shaped locking cams in the frame keep. The handle is the trigger for the gearbox, which activates the cams for either upward or down movement. The spindle of the lock could break which causes the handle to move, but the window to open or close.
A faulty transmission can also cause your window to appear locked however it's not. This could happen when the rods in the centre, also referred to as crocodile tooth fixings, in the gearbox are snapped off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacements for these rods to restore the functionality of your window.
It is important not to force an unbreakable lock or stuck one. This can cause the lock to snap or break - especially with a uPVC window that expands and contracts as it warms and cools. To prevent this from happening, it is best to seek out a professional locksmith to diagnose the issue and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's annoying to have windows and doors that are stuck however, they could also be indicative of more serious structural issues. If you're having difficulty to open or close a window or door it is crucial to seek out professional assistance whenever you can. This issue can be caused by a number of factors like foundation settlement or the lack of support for the crawl space.
Frame or humidity issues can cause windows and doors to become stuck. If your frames are wood for instance, they may be prone to warping when exposed to humidity. This makes opening and closing them a challenge, even if the hardware is in good condition. The wood swells as it expands and pushes up against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the window or door with soap to decrease friction if it sticks in the summer. This will help it shrink and could solve the issue temporarily. This procedure will have to be repeated periodically during periods of high humidity.
A more permanent fix involves sanding the door or window frame to create an even finish. This can be done by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also sand, paint or stain your frame or door to make it look brand new again.
If Sanding and soap aren't working it's likely the issue is due to foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. The first thing you need to do is look for cracks in the area. It's time to call an expert in foundation if you see any of these signs. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors, a misaligned wall and doors that are stuck. It is important to address these issues as early as you can to avoid costly and dangerous repairs in the future. If left unattended, these issues could escalate to the point where your entire home is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's most reputable foundation repair experts to schedule an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing starts to deteriorate, it may cause cracks to appear. This could be a disconcerting sight and also allow all the heat in your home to escape. It could also pose a safety risk for your family, as the glass's sharp edges could injure them when they break. It is best to fix double-glazing windows with a crack before they get any worse. This will increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are crucial to keep air out between the window panes and they also stop drafts from entering your home. However, over time these will deteriorate or shrink due to weather changes. Unchecked, it can result in condensation, moisture and draughts inside your home.
This issue is usually resolved by an expert. They will be able to replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original state. They may also suggest additional features that will reduce the chance of a stress crack forming in the future, like trickle vents to improve ventilation.
double glazing repairs can also try lubricating the hinges as well as handles on your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily, and the lock to function as it should. Rub lubricating oils onto a lint free cloth and then rub them into the hinges and handle mechanism as well as in places where they pass through frames (for example for sash window). It can also be helpful to remove handles from their frames and wash them with warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit that has become stuck to them.
It is crucial to contact an expert when your uPVC doors and windows are not working as they should. They can identify the problem quickly, and then fix it in a short time. It's a lot less expensive and safer than trying to do it yourself and potentially harming the mechanism. You will also have peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.