Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double glazing window isn't closed, it causes draughts and allows heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and exposes you to burglary.
Double glazed window seals, hinges, and handles can break down over time. If this happens, it could affect how your windows function and invalidate any warranty you may have.
The locks are not working properly
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates However, they tend to forget that windows are also the most frequent targets for burglars. A poor lock can cause drafts inside the home, allowing valuable heat to escape and weaken your home's security barriers.
If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not working, there's an excellent chance that the lock mechanism is blocked. This usually occurs due to a split in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to not open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a frequent issue with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be found in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you'll be able to release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can be used to unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this does not work, you may need to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are a locking system inside the window that secures the window by using locking cams that resemble mushrooms that are inserted into the frame keeps. The handle is the trigger for the gearbox, which triggers the cams to allow either up or down movement. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock has broken, causing the handle to turn freely but not allowing the window to move open or close.
A damaged transmission could make your window appear to be locked however it's not. This could happen if the central rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have broken off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods if this occurs.
It is not advisable to force a broken lock or a stuck one. This can cause the lock to snap or break, especially with a uPVC window that expands and shrinks as it warms up and cools. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who can identify the issue and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is an extremely annoying problem however, they could also indicate more serious structural issues. It's important to get professional assistance if you're having difficulty opening or closing the door or window. This could be the result of various factors, including foundation settlement and inadequate support for crawl spaces.
Humidity or frame problems could cause windows and doors to stick. If your frames are made of wood, for instance, they could warp when exposed to moisture. This makes opening and closing them a challenge, even if the hardware in good condition. If this happens, the wood swells and pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the window or door with soap to decrease 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 periodically during times of high moisture.
Sanding double glazing window repairs of the window or door to a smooth surface is a better and more lasting fix. It can be done by hand or using the power tool. A professional can also stain and sand or paint your window or door frame to make it appear fresh and new.
If sanding and soap aren't helping it's likely that the issue is due to foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. The first thing you should do is check for cracks in the area. If you notice these signs, it's time to contact an expert in foundation repair. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors and a misaligned interior wall and, in turn, sticking windows and doors. To avoid costly and risky repairs, it's crucial to address these issues as soon as possible. If ignored these issues can escalate to the point that your entire home is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's leading foundation repair specialists today to arrange an inspection and repair service!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can form when double glazing begins to break down. This could be a disconcerting sight, and can also allow all the heat in your home to escape. It also poses an hazard for your family members, as the sharp pieces of glass could injure them in the event that they break. It is best to fix any double-glazing window that have a crack prior to them get any worse. This will increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are essential to prevent drafts from entering your home and keep air between your window panes. Over time, the seals can shrink or become perished due to changes in weather. If unchecked, this can lead to humidity in the home as well as condensation and draughts.
This issue is typically resolved by a professional. They will be able to replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original state. They can also recommend additional features that can reduce the possibility of a stress crack forming in the future, such as trickle vents for better ventilation.
It is also possible to try lubricating the hinges and handles on your windows and doors. This will allow them to move more easily and the lock to function as intended. Apply lubricating oil to a clean cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism, as well as the areas where they pass through the frame (for example, sash windows). You can also take off the handles and wash them in warm soapy water to remove any dirt or dust.
If your uPVC windows and doors aren't functioning as they should, it's crucial to contact a professional to repair them. They will be able to determine 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 could cause damage to the mechanism. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.