Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window isn't closed, it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.
Over time, double glazed window hinges as well as seals, handles and handles may become damaged. If this is the case, it could affect how your windows work and could invalidate any warranty you may have.
Faulty locks
Many people put anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates However, they tend to overlook that windows are the most frequent targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause drafts, let heat escape and compromise the security of your home.
If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not working, there's an excellent chance that the lock mechanism is stuck. This is usually due to a split in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to turn 360 degrees, but not fully open. This issue is common to uPVC windows, but it can also happen in tilt-and-turn windows as well as sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you'll be able to release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This will unlock the gearbox and reopen the window's opening. If this doesn't work then you might need to replace the entire window lock mechanism.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window which secure the window by using mushroom-shaped locking cams in the frame keep. The handle turns on the gearbox, which activates the cams for either upward or down movement. The most frequent issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged, causing the handle to rotate freely, but not move the window open or shut.
A damaged gearbox may cause your window to appear locked, but isn't actually. This can occur when the centre rods, also known as crocodile tooth fixings, in the gearbox are snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods in the event that this happens.
It is not advisable to force an unbreakable lock or a stuck one. This can cause the lock to break or snap - particularly with a window made of uPVC because it expands and contracts as it warms and cools. To prevent this from happening, it is best to contact a professional locksmith to diagnose the issue and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Windows and doors that stick are an extremely annoying problem, but they can also be a sign of more serious structural issues. It's important to get professional help if you have difficulty opening or closing windows or doors. The problem could be caused by a variety of factors such as foundation settlement or a lack of support for the crawl space.
Windows and doors often are stuck due to humidity or a problem with the frame itself. If your frames are made of wood for instance, they could be prone to warping when exposed to moisture. This can make opening and closing them difficult even if the hardware is in good condition. In this case, the wood swells and pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
If your window or door gets stuck in the summer you can try rubbing it with bar soap to reduce the friction. This will make it less swollen and could solve the issue temporarily. This method may need to be repeated periodically during periods of high humidity.
A more permanent fix involves making the door or window frame to give it an even finish. This can be done by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also sand and paint or stain your door or frame to make it look brand new once more.
If the sanding and soap don't help, it's likely that the issue is due to foundation settlement or a compromised crawl space. The first thing to do is look for cracks around the affected area. If you notice these indications, you need to call a professional in foundation repair. Foundation damage can lead to uneven floors and a misaligned interior wall, which in turn causes sticking doors and windows. To avoid expensive and dangerous repairs, it's crucial to address these issues as soon as you can. These issues could escalate until your home becomes unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Contact the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing starts to degrade, it can cause cracks to appear. This can be an unsightly sight and also allow the heat inside your home to escape. This can also pose a safety threat for your family members as the sharp glass pieces could cause injuries if they break. It is recommended to fix any double glazing windows that show cracks before they get worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing them.
Window seals are crucial for keeping air in between the window panes and also to stop drafts from entering your home. Over time, these seals may shrink or even be destroyed due to changes in weather. If not taken double glazing repair of, it could result in condensation, moisture, and draughts in your home.
A professional can usually solve this issue. They will be able to replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original state. They will also suggest features that will reduce future stress cracks, for example trickle ventilation for better ventilation.
You can also lubricate the handles and hinges on your windows and door. This will allow them to move more easily, and the lock to function as it was intended. Rub lubricating oils onto a lint free cloth and rub them into the hinges, handle mechanism and places where they pass through frames (for instance, a sash window). You can also take off the handles and wash them with soapy water to wash away any dirt or dust.
It is crucial to contact a professional if you find that your uPVC windows and doors are not working as they should. They will be able to determine the issue quickly and then resolve it within a short amount of time. It's safer and less expensive than attempting to fix it yourself, and could cause damage to the mechanism. You'll also be able to rest in peace of mind knowing your home is secure and safe.