Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window will not close, it creates draughts that allow valuable heat to escape. It also reduces the security of your home and puts you at risk of burglary.
Double glazed window seals, hinges and handles can become damaged over time. If this happens it could affect your windows' functionality and void any warranties you may have.
Locks that aren't working
While many take great care in installing anti-burglar systems for their gates and main doors but they often forget that the windows are prime targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause draughts, let valuable heat escape and compromise the security of your home.
If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not working, there is an excellent chance that the mechanism for locking has become jammed. This usually occurs due to a slit in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle to turn 360 degrees, but not fully open. This is a common issue with uPVC casement windows, but can also be found in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you can release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can help to unblock the gear box and allow the opening of the window. If this method does not 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 employing locking cams shaped like mushrooms that are built into the frame keeps. The handle is the one that operates the gearbox that then triggers the cams to either move up or down. The most frequent issue is when the spindle on the lock has broken and the handle is unable to move freely but not to move the window open or close.
A malfunctioning transmission may cause your window to appear locked but it's not. This is because the centre rods, also known as crocodile teeth fixings within the gearbox break off. Misty Glaze will supply and replace the rods if this occurs.
It is not advisable to force the lock to break or get a stuck one. This could cause the lock to snap or break - particularly with a window made of uPVC because it expands and shrinks as it warms up and cools. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who can determine the issue and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It is annoying to find doors and windows that don't close, but they may be a sign of more serious structural issues. It is important to seek assistance from a professional if you are having trouble opening or closing the door or window. These problems can be caused by a number of reasons such as foundation settlement or the lack of support for the crawl space.
Windows and doors often are stuck due to humidity or the frame itself. When exposed to moisture, wooden frames can begin to warp. Even if your hardware appears great, this could make it difficult to open and close your frames. In this case, the wood swells and presses against the hinges, creating friction.
If your door or window gets stuck in the summer you can try rubbing it with bar soap to reduce the friction. This will allow it to shrink and can resolve the issue temporarily. This method will need to be repeated periodically during periods of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the door or window to a smooth finish is a more durable fix. This can be done by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also sand, paint or stain your door or frame to make it look brand new once more.
If double glazing repair near me and soap aren't working it's likely the issue is due to foundation settlement or a damaged crawl space. Check for cracks in the area. If you notice these signs, it's time to contact an expert in foundation repair. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors and a misaligned interior wall which can lead to stuck doors and windows. It's important to take care of these issues as soon as possible in order to avoid costly 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 top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing starts to deteriorate, it may cause cracks to develop. This can be unsightly and allows all the heat that has been build up within your home to escape. It also poses an hazard for your family, as the glass's sharp edges could cause injuries in the event that they break. It is best to repair any double glazing windows that have cracks prior to it getting worse, as this will increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are crucial to keep air between your window panes and also to stop drafts from entering your home. Over time, the seals can shrink or be destroyed because of changes in weather. If not checked, it can lead to moisture, condensation, and draughts in your home.
This issue is typically solved by a professional. They can replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original state. They can also recommend additional features that will reduce the likelihood of a stress crack forming in the future, for example trickle vents to improve ventilation.
You can also lubricate the handles and hinges of your doors and windows. This will enable them to move more easily, and the lock to function as it should. Put some lubricating oils on a cloth that is free of lint and rub it into the handles and hinges, as well as places where they pass through the frame (for example, for sash windows). You can also remove the handles and clean them in warm soapy water to get rid of any dirt or grit.
If your uPVC windows and doors aren't functioning as they should, it is important to call in a professional to repair them. They can determine the issue quickly and resolve the issue in a short space of time. It's much safer and cheaper than attempting to fix it yourself and could cause damage to the mechanism. You'll also have peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.