Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window won't close it creates drafts and allows valuable heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at a greater risk of being a victim of burglary.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges handles, seals and handles can become damaged. If this is the case, it could affect how your windows function and invalidate any warranty you have.
Locks with a problem
Many people put anti-burglar systems on their main doors and gates, but they often forget that windows are the most frequent targets for burglars. A poor lock can lead to draughts in the house, allow valuable heat to escape and weaken your home's security.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't functioning, there is a good chance that the lock mechanism is blocked. This is usually due to a split in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to not open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a common issue with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be present in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
In this situation you can unlock the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This will unlock the gearbox and reopen 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. These are a locking system inside the window that secures the window utilising mushroom-like locking cams that are built into the frame. The handle activates the gearbox, which then activates the cams for either up or down movement. The spindle of the lock could break and cause the handle to move but the window to open or close.
A faulty gearbox can also cause your window to appear locked, but isn't actually. This could happen if the central rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) within the gearbox have broken off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and install replacement rods in order to restore the function of your window.
It is crucial not to force a broken lock or stuck lock. This can cause a lock to snap or break, especially if you have a uPVC windows that expands and contracts with temperature changes. To prevent this from happening problem, it is recommended to seek out a professional locksmith to identify the problem and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is a serious annoyance, but they can be a sign of more serious structural problems. If you find it difficult to open or close a window or door it is important to seek help from a professional as soon as possible. These issues can result from many things, including foundation settlement and inadequate support for crawl spaces.
Humidity or frame problems can cause doors and windows to stick. When exposed to moisture, wood frames may begin to warp. This makes opening and closing them a challenge, even if the hardware in good shape. The wood swells as it expands and pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
If your door or window sticks in the summer you can try rubbing it with bar soap to decrease the friction. This will allow it to shrink and may resolve the problem temporarily. This procedure will have to be repeated sporadically during times of high humidity.
A more permanent solution is making the door or window frame to give it a smooth finish. You can do this by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also sand and paint, or stain your door or frame to make it look new once more.
If sanding or soaping doesn't help, your problem may be due to foundation settlement or a weak crawlspace. 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. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven flooring and sloping interior walls which can lead to stuck doors and windows. To avoid future expensive and dangerous repairs, it's essential to address these problems as soon as they can be addressed. 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 form when double glazing begins to degrade. It can be unappealing and it also allows all the heat that's build up in your home to escape. This could also pose danger to your family 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 cracks prior to it getting worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are essential for keeping air in between the window panes and also to stop drafts from entering your home. However, over time these can become perished or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not taken care of, it could lead to moisture, condensation and draughts inside your home.
This issue can usually be resolved by an expert. They will be able to replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original condition. They can also suggest options to reduce the chance of future stress cracks, such as trickle ventilation for better ventilation.
You can also grease the hinges and handles of your doors and windows. This will enable them to move more smoothly and let the lock work as intended. Put double glazing repair on a lint-free cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism as well as the areas where they go through the frame (for example, for sash windows). It can also be helpful to remove handles from their frames and clean them with warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit which has become stuck to them.
If your uPVC doors and windows are not functioning as they should, it is important to call in an expert to fix them. They will be able to identify the issue quickly, and fix it in a short time. It's much less expensive and safer than trying to fix it yourself and risk damaging the mechanisms. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is secure and safe.