Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double glazing window isn't closed, it creates draughts and allows heat to escape. It also reduces your security measures for your home and puts you at risk of burglary.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges handles, seals and handles can be damaged. If this is the situation, it can affect your windows' functionality and invalidate any warranties you may have.
The locks are not working properly
Many people put anti-burglar systems on their main doors and gates, but they often forget that windows are prime targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause drafts, allow valuable heat escape and compromise the security of your home.
If you find that your uPVC windows locks don't work, it's likely that the lock mechanism is jammed. This usually occurs because of a crack in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle not to open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a problem that is typical of uPVC windows, but it is also a problem in tilt-and-turn windows as well as sliding sash windows.
When this happens, it is possible to release the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and allow the opening of the window. If this does nothing it is possible to replace the entire window lock mechanism.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are an internal locking system that secures the window using locking cams that resemble mushrooms that are built into the frame keeps. The handle activates the gearbox, which activates the cams for either upward or down movement. The spindle of the lock could break which causes the handle to move but the window to close or open.
A damaged gearbox may cause your window to appear locked, but isn't actually. This can happen when the central rods (sometimes known as crocodile teeth fixings) in the gearbox have snapped off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and install replacement rods to restore the operation of your window.
It is not advisable to force the lock to break or get stuck one. This can cause the lock to snap or break in particular if you are using 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 determine the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is an extremely annoying problem however, they could also be a sign of more serious structural problems. If you are unable to open or close a window or door it is crucial to seek professional help immediately. The issue could be the result of various factors, including foundation settlement and weak crawl space support.
Windows and doors can stick because of humidity or a problem with the frame itself. When exposed to moisture, wood frames may begin to warp. This can make opening and closing them a challenge, even if the hardware in good condition. When this happens the wood expands and pushes against the hinges, causing friction.
If your door or window gets stuck in the summer, try rubbing it with bar soap to reduce the friction. This will help it shrink and can resolve the issue temporarily. This solution may need to be repeated periodically during periods of high moisture.
A more permanent solution is sanding the window or door frame down to an even finish. You can do this either by hand or with the power tool. A professional can also sand, paint or stain your frame or door to make it look new once more.
If the sanding and soap don't help it's likely that your issue is caused by foundation settlement or a compromised crawl space. The first thing you should do is look for cracks in the area. If you see these signs, it's time to contact a foundation repair specialist. Damage to the foundation can result in uneven floors, walls that are not aligned and doors and windows that are stuck. It's important 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 home's structure is unstable. Call the Southeast's most reputable foundation repair experts to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can appear when double glazing begins to degrade. It can be unappealing and it also allows all the heat that's build up within your home to escape. This could also pose danger to your family as the sharp glass pieces could cause injury if they break. It is best to repair any double-glazing windows with a crack before they get any worse. This can increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are crucial to stop drafts from entering your home and keep air in between the window panes. Over time, these seals may shrink or even become perished due to changes in the weather. If not checked, it can cause condensation, moisture, and draughts in your home.
This issue can usually be resolved by an expert. They can replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original condition. They may also suggest additional features that will reduce the chance of a stress crack occurring in the future, like trickle vents to improve ventilation.
Double Glazing Door Repairs can also lubricate the handles and hinges of your windows and door. This will allow them move more easily and allow the lock to function as it should. Apply lubricating oil to a cloth that is free of lint and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism, as well as the areas where they go through the frame (for example, for windows with sash). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from the frames and clean them with warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit that has been sunk into them.
If your uPVC windows and doors aren't working as they should, it's important to call in an expert to fix them. They will be able to identify the issue quickly and solve it in a short time. It's much safer and cheaper than trying 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.