Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window isn't closed, it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. This also reduces the security of your home and puts you at a greater risk of burglary.
double glazing repairs glazed window seals, hinges and handles may break down over time. If this is the case, it could affect how your windows function and invalidate any warranty you have.
Faulty locks
While many people take great care in installing anti-burglar security systems for their gates as well as main doors, it is often overlooked that windows are among the top targets for burglars. A poor lock can lead to draughts in the house, allow valuable heat to escape and also weaken the security of your home.
If you're uPVC windows locks don't work, it is likely that the lock mechanism is blocked. This usually occurs due to a split in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle to not open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This issue is common with uPVC windows, however it is also a problem in tilt-and-turn windows as well as sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you'll be able to release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and restore the opening of the window. If this doesn't work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are an internal locking system that secures the window 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, causing them to move up or down. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged which causes the handle to turn freely but not to move the window open or shut.
A broken gearbox could cause your window to appear locked but not actually be. This is usually the case when the centre rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have been snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods if this occurs.
It is important not to force a broken lock or a stuck one. This can cause the lock to snap or break, particularly with a window made of uPVC because it expands and expands as it warms and cools. It is best to contact a professional locksmith to determine the issue and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is a major source of irritation however, they could also be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you're having difficulty to open or close a door or window, it's important to seek out professional assistance immediately. The issue could be a result of various factors, including foundation settlement and weak crawl space support.
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 looks nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood expands when this happens, and it pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
If your door or window sticks in the summer and you are unable to get it to close, try using bar soap to decrease the friction. This will allow it to shrink and may resolve the problem temporarily. This method will need to be repeated sporadically during times of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the door or window to a smooth finish is a better and more lasting solution. It can be done either by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also sand and paint or stain your frame or door to make it look new once more.
If sanding or soaping doesn't aid, the issue could be due to foundation settlement or a compromised crawlspace. Check for cracks in the area. It's time for you to consult a foundation specialist If you notice any of these signs. Foundation damage can cause uneven flooring and sloping interior walls, which in turn causes sticking windows and doors. To avoid expensive and dangerous repairs, it's crucial to address these issues as soon as possible. If ignored, these issues could escalate to the point that your entire house is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's most reputable foundation repair experts to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing begins to degrade, it can cause cracks to appear. This can be a snazzy sight and also allow all the heat in your home to escape. It also poses danger to your family as the sharp glass pieces could cause injuries in the event of a break. It is best to repair any double-glazed windows that have a crack before it gets worse, since this could increase the cost of replacing them.
Window seals are vital to stop drafts from entering your home and to keep air between the window panes. As time passes, these seals will shrink or eventually get damaged due to changes in the weather. If not taken care of, it could result in condensation, moisture and draughts inside your home.
A professional is usually able to resolve this issue. They can replace the window seal in order to restore your windows to their original condition. They can also recommend features that will reduce future stress cracks, for example trickle ventilation for better air circulation.
You can also try lubricating hinges and handles on your doors and windows. This will help them move more easily and let the lock function as it should. Rub some lubricating oils on a lint-free cloth and then rub them into hinges and handle mechanism as well as in areas where they pass through frames (for instance, a window with sash). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from their frames and wash them with warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit which has been sunk into them.
If your uPVC windows and doors aren't functioning in the way they should, it is important to call in an expert to fix them. They can find the issue quickly and fix it within a short amount of time. It's a lot less expensive and more secure than trying do it yourself and possibly damaging the mechanisms. It will also give you peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.