Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double glazing 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.
Double-glazed window seals, hinges, and handles can become damaged over time. If this happens, it can affect your windows' functionality and invalidate any warranties you may have.
The locks are not working properly
While a lot of people are careful when installing anti-burglar systems for their gates and doors, it is often overlooked that windows are among the top targets for burglars. Having faulty locks can cause drafts inside the home, allowing valuable heat to escape and weaken your home's security barriers.
If you find that your uPVC windows locks don't function, it is most likely that the mechanism of the lock is jammed. This is typically caused by an issue with a gearbox component. This could cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees but not open. This is a frequent issue with uPVC casement windows, but 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 on the lever handle. This can be used to unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this does nothing, you may have to replace the entire mechanism of the window lock.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are a locking system inside the window that secures the window using locking cams that resemble mushrooms which are inserted into frame. The handle turns on the gearbox, which triggers the cams for either up or down movement. The spindle of the lock can break, causing the handle not to move but the window to open or close.
A damaged gearbox may cause your window to appear locked, but isn't actually. This could happen if the rods in the centre (sometimes known as crocodile teeth fixings) within the gearbox have broken off. Misty Glaze will supply and replace the rods if this happens.
It is crucial not to force the lock to break or get a stuck one. This could cause a lock to break or snap, especially if you have windows made of uPVC that expand and contracts when temperatures change. To prevent this from happening, it is best to call a locksmith professional to identify the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's a nuisance to have windows and doors that are stuck and sag, but they can be a sign of more serious structural problems. If you're having difficulty to open or close a window or door it is crucial to seek professional help immediately. These problems can be caused by a variety of reasons like foundation settlement or a lack of support for the crawl space.
Doors and windows often get stuck due to humidity or an issue with the frame itself. If your frames are wood for instance, they may become brittle when exposed to moisture. Even if the hardware looks nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. If this happens the wood expands and pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the door or window with soap to reduce friction if it gets stuck in summer. This will help it shrink and may resolve the problem temporarily. This procedure will have to be repeated sporadically during times of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the window or door to a smooth finish is a more permanent fix. It can be done either by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also sand and paint or stain your frame or door to make it look brand new and fresh.
If sanding and soap aren't helping it's likely your issue is caused by foundation settlement or a damaged crawl space. Look for cracks in the area. If you spot these signs, it's time to call a foundation repair specialist. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors and misaligned interior walls which can lead to sticking doors and windows. double glazing repair near me is crucial to tackle these issues as early as possible to avoid more expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. These issues can get worse until your home is unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Contact the Southeast's leading foundation repair specialists today to arrange an inspection and repair!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can appear when double glazing begins to degrade. This can be unsightly and allows all the heat that's build up in your home to escape. This could also pose danger for your family members as the glass pieces can cause injury in the event of a break. It is recommended to repair any double-glazed windows that have a crack before it gets worse, as this will increase the cost of replacing them.
Window seals are vital to stop drafts from entering your home and keep air between the window panes. However, over time, they will deteriorate or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not taken care of, it could lead to moisture, condensation and draughts inside your home.
A professional is usually able to resolve this issue. They can repair the window seal and restore your windows to their original condition. They can also recommend options to reduce the chance of future stress cracks, like trickle ventilation for better air circulation.
You can also grease the hinges and handles of your windows and door. This will enable them to move more easily and allow the lock to function as it should. Rub some lubricating oil on a lint-free cloth and then rub them into the hinges or handle mechanism, as well as places where they go through frames (for instance, a window with sash). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from the frames and wash them by using warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit that may have become stuck to them.
It is crucial to contact an expert if your uPVC doors and windows aren't working as they should. They can pinpoint the issue quickly, and then solve it in a short time. It's a lot safer and more affordable than trying to fix the issue yourself and could cause damage to the mechanism. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.