Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed windows will not shut, it creates draughts that allow valuable heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at a greater risk of burglary.
Over time, double glazed window hinges, handles and seals can be damaged. If this is the case, it can affect the performance of your windows and cancel any warranties you might have.
Faulty Locks
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main gates and doors however, they overlook that windows are the most frequent targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause drafts, let heat escape, and reduce the security of your house.
If you find that your uPVC window locks are not functioning, there is likely that the lock mechanism is blocked. This usually happens due to the gearbox breaking in one component. This could cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees but not open. This is a common problem with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be present in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
When this happens, it is possible to release the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and allow the opening of the window. If this does not work, you may need to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are internal locking systems that secure the window using locks that look like mushrooms and are in the frame keep. The handle controls the gearbox that then triggers the cams to either move upwards or downwards. The spindle of the lock can break which causes the handle to move, but the window to close or open.
A broken gearbox could cause your window to appear to be locked, but isn't actually. This could happen if the rods in the centre (sometimes known as crocodile teeth fixings) within the gearbox have been snapped off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacements for these rods to restore the operation of your window.
It is essential not to try to force a stuck or broken lock. This could cause the lock to snap or break, particularly with a window made of uPVC as it expands and contracts as it warms and cools. To prevent this from happening issue, you should contact a professional locksmith to identify the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's annoying to find doors and windows that are stuck however, they could also be indicative of more serious structural problems. It is essential to seek professional assistance if you're having difficulty opening or closing windows or doors. These issues can result from many things that include foundation settlement as well as inadequate support for crawl spaces.
double glazing repairs near me and windows often stick because of humidity or a problem with the frame itself. When exposed to moisture, wooden frames may begin to warp. This makes opening and closing them difficult even if the hardware in good condition. The wood swells when this happens, and it pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
If your door or window gets stuck in the summer and you are unable to get it to close, try using bar soap to lessen the friction. This will make it less swollen and may resolve the problem temporarily. This method will need to be repeated frequently during periods of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the door or window to a smooth finish is a better and more lasting solution. This can be done by hand or using the power tool. A professional can also sand, paint or stain your frame or door to make it appear new and fresh.
If sanding and soap aren't helping, it's likely that your problem stems from foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. The first thing you should do is check for cracks around the affected area. It's time to contact a foundation specialist If you notice any of these indications. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors and misaligned interior walls and, in turn, sticking doors and windows. To avoid the need for expensive and dangerous repairs, it's important to address these issues as soon as possible. If left unattended the issues could get worse to the point that your entire home's structure is unstable. Contact the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to set up an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can develop when double glazing begins to degrade. This can be an unsightly sight, and can also allow all the heat in your home to escape. It also poses an injury risk to your family, as the glass pieces can cause injuries in the event of a break. It is recommended to fix any double glazing windows that have a crack before it gets worse, as this will increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are crucial to prevent drafts from entering the home and keep air in between the window panes. However, over time, they can become perished or shrink due to weather changes. If left unchecked this could lead to moisture in the home as well as condensation and draughts.
This issue is typically resolved by an expert. They can replace the window seal and restore your windows back to their original state of repair. They will also suggest other features that can reduce the possibility of a stress crack forming in the future, like trickle vents for better ventilation.
You could also try lubricating the hinges and handles on your windows and doors. This will enable them to move more easily, and the lock to function as it should. Put some lubricating oil on a clean cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism, and also in the places that they pass through the frame (for example, for windows with sash). It may also be beneficial to remove the handles from the frames and wash them by using warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit which has been stuck to them.
It is important to contact an expert when your uPVC doors and windows aren't functioning as they should. They can identify the problem quickly, and then fix it in a short time. It's safer and less expensive than attempting to fix it yourself and could cause damage to the mechanism. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.