Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed windows will not close, it causes drafts that allow 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 how your windows work and could invalidate any warranty you may have.
Locks that aren't working
Many people put anti-burglar systems on their main doors and gates, but they often overlook that windows are the most frequent targets for burglars. Having faulty locks can cause drafts inside the house, allow valuable heat to escape, and weaken your home's security barriers.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't working, there's likely that the lock mechanism has become jammed. This is usually because of a crack in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle not to open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This issue is common with uPVC windows, but it can also occur in tilt-and turn windows and sliding sash windows.
When this happens you can unlock the lock by applying pressure on the lever handle. This will allow you to open the gear box and restore the window's opening. If this doesn't work, you may have to replace the entire window lock mechanism.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are an internal locking system that secures the window by utilising mushroom-like locking cams that are inserted into the frame keeps. The handle operates the gearbox that then triggers the cams, causing them to move upwards or downwards. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock has been damaged, causing the handle to turn freely but not to move the window open or shut.
A broken gearbox could cause your window to appear to be locked, but it is not. This is because the rods in the centre, also referred to as crocodile teeth fixings in the gearbox snap off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacement rods to restore the functionality of your window.
It is crucial not to force the lock to break or get a stuck one. This could cause the lock to break or snap - especially with a uPVC window as it expands and expands as it warms and cools. It is best to contact an expert locksmith who will identify the issue and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is an extremely annoying problem but they can also indicate more significant structural problems. It is important to seek assistance from a professional if you are having trouble opening or closing windows or doors. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors like foundation settlement or the lack of support in the crawl space.
Frame problems or humidity can cause doors and windows to stick. If your frames are wood, for instance, they can be prone to warping when exposed to humidity. This can make opening and closing them difficult, even if the hardware is in good condition. In this case, the wood swells and presses against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the door or window with soap to lessen friction, especially if it is stuck in summer. This will make it less swollen and may resolve the problem temporarily. This solution may need to be repeated frequently during times of high moisture.
A more permanent fix involves sanding the window or door frame down to a smooth finish. This can be done either by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also stain, sand and paint your door or window frame to get it looking new again.
If double glazing repairs and soap aren't working, it's likely that your problem stems from foundation settlement or a compromised crawl space. The first thing you should do is check for cracks in the area. If you see these indications, you need to call a professional in foundation repair. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors and misaligned interior walls and, in turn, 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 ignored these issues can escalate to the point where your entire house is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's leading foundation repair specialists today to schedule an inspection and repair!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing starts to wear down, it could cause cracks to develop. This can be an unsightly appearance and allow the heat inside your home to escape. It can also be dangerous for your family, since the glass's sharp edges can cause injury in the event that they break. It is best to fix double-glazing windows that have a crack prior to them get any worse. This can increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are essential to prevent drafts from entering the home and keep air in between the window panes. Over time, these seals may shrink or even get damaged due to changes in the weather. If not taken care of this could lead to moisture in the home as well as condensation and draughts.
A professional will usually be able to solve this problem. They can 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 occurring in the future, for example trickle vents for improved ventilation.
It is also possible to try lubricating the hinges as well as handles on your windows and doors. This will allow them to move more easily, and the lock to function as intended. Rub some lubricating oils on a cloth that is free of lint and then rub them into hinges, handle mechanism and areas where they pass through frames (for instance, a sash window). It can also be helpful to remove the handles from the frames and wash them with warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit which has been stuck to them.
If your uPVC windows and doors are not functioning as they should, it's essential to contact a professional to fix them. They will be able to find the issue quickly and then resolve it within a short amount of time. It's a lot safer and more affordable than attempting to fix it yourself, and possibly damaging the mechanisms. It will also give you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.