Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window won't close it creates drafts and allows heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at greater risk of being a victim of burglary.
Double-glazed window seals, hinges and handles may break down over time. 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
While a lot of people are careful when installing anti-burglar devices for their gates and doors but they often forget that windows are among the top targets for burglars. Insecure locks can lead to drafts, allow valuable heat escape and compromise the security of your home.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't functioning, there is an excellent chance that the mechanism for locking has become jammed. This is usually caused by an issue with a gearbox component. This can cause the handle to not open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a common problem with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be seen in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens you can unlock the lock by applying pressure on the lever handle. This will unblock the gearbox and restore the window's opening. If this doesn't work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are a locking system inside the window that secures the window by using locking cams that resemble mushrooms that are inserted into the frame. The handle turns on the gearbox, which triggers the cams for either up or down movement. The spindle of the lock could break which causes the handle to move, but the window to close or open.
A malfunctioning transmission may make your window appear locked, but it is not. This is usually the case when the rods in the centre (sometimes known as crocodile teeth fixings) within the gearbox have been snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods if this occurs.
It is crucial not to force an unbreakable lock or a stuck one. This can cause a lock to break or snap, especially if you have a uPVC windows that expands and contracts with temperature changes. To avoid this issue, you should contact a professional locksmith to determine the problem and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's annoying to find doors and windows that stick, but they may also indicate more serious structural issues. It's important to get assistance from a professional if you are having difficulty opening or closing the door or window. These problems can be caused by a number of reasons such as foundation settlement or an absence of support in the crawl space.
Doors and windows often are stuck due to humidity or an issue with the frame itself. When exposed to moisture, wood frames may begin to warp. Even if the hardware appears nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. In this case, the wood swells and pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
If your window or door is sagging in summer and you are unable to get it to close, try using bar soap to decrease the friction. This will make it less swollen and can resolve the issue temporarily. This solution will need to be repeated frequently 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 stain, sand and paint your window or door frame to make it appear fresh and new.
If the sanding and soap don't help, it's likely that your issue is caused by 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 flooring and sloping interior walls which can lead to stuck doors and windows. It is crucial to address these issues as early as you can to avoid expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. If not addressed these issues can escalate to the point where your entire house is structurally unstable. Call the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing begins to wear down, it could cause cracks to form. This can be an unsightly sight, and can also let all the heat from your home to escape. It also poses a safety threat for your family members as the sharp glass pieces could 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 them.
Window seals are crucial to stop drafts from entering the home and keep air between the window panes. As double glazing window repairs , these seals can shrink or get damaged due to changes in weather. If not checked, it can result in condensation, moisture, and draughts in your home.
A professional can usually solve this problem. They can replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original condition. They can also recommend features that can reduce the risk of stress cracks, such as trickle ventilation for better air circulation.
It is also possible to try lubricating hinges and handles on your windows and doors. This will enable them to move more easily and the lock to function as intended. Put some lubricating oils on a clean cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism as well as the areas where they go through the frame (for example, sash windows). It can also be helpful to remove the handles from the frames and clean them with warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit which has been stuck to them.
If your uPVC doors and windows aren't working in the way they should, it's important to call in a professional to fix them. They will be able to find the issue quickly and fix it within a short amount of time. It is a lot cheaper and more secure than trying do it yourself and possibly damaging the mechanisms. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is secure and safe.