Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double glazing window isn't closed, it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges as well as seals, handles and handles may be damaged. If this happens, it can affect how your windows function and void any warranty you may have.
The locks are not working properly
While many are careful when installing anti-burglar security systems for their gates and doors but they often forget that windows are among the top targets for burglars. Having faulty locks could cause drafts to enter the home, allowing valuable heat to escape and weaken your home's security barriers.
If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not functioning, there is an excellent chance that the lock mechanism has become stuck. This is usually caused by a split in a gearbox component. This could cause the handle not to open, but instead to rotate 360 degrees. This is a frequent issue with uPVC casement windows, but is also seen in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can be used to unblock the gearbox and restore the window's opening. If this doesn't work, you may need 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 utilising mushroom-like locking cams that are built into the frame. The handle controls the gearbox which then activates the cams, causing them to move upwards or downwards. The spindle of the lock could break which causes the handle to move, but the window to either open or close.
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 broken off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and install replacement rods to restore the functionality of your window.
It is crucial not to force a stuck or broken lock. This could cause the lock to break or snap - particularly with a window made of uPVC that expands and expands as it warms and cools. To avoid this, it is best to contact a professional locksmith to determine the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Sticking doors and windows are an extremely annoying problem, but they can also indicate more serious structural problems. If you find it difficult to open or close a door or window it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. This could be a result of many things such as foundation settlement and weak crawl space support.
Doors and windows often stick because of humidity or a problem with the frame itself. 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. If this happens the wood expands and pushes against the hinges, causing friction.
If your window or door gets stuck in the summer and you are unable to get it to close, try using bar soap to decrease the friction. This will make it less swollen and can resolve the issue temporarily. This procedure will have to be repeated sporadically during times of high humidity.
A more permanent solution involves making the door or window frame down to an even finish. This can be done by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also sand, paint or stain your frame or door to make it look brand new and fresh.
If the sanding and soap don't help it's likely that your problem stems from foundation settlement or a damaged crawl space. The first thing to do is check for cracks in the affected area. If you spot these indications, you need to call an expert in foundation repair. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors, walls that are not aligned and doors and windows that are stuck. To avoid expensive and dangerous repairs, it's important to deal with these issues as soon as possible. If not addressed the issues could get worse to the point where your entire home is structurally unstable. Call the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing starts to wear down, it could cause cracks to develop. This can be ugly and allows all the heat that has been stored in your home to escape. It also poses a safety risk for your family members, as the glass's sharp edges can cause injury when they break. It is recommended to fix any double-glazed windows that have a crack before it gets worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are crucial to prevent drafts from entering the home and keep air in between your window panes. Over time, these seals may shrink or even become perished because of changes in weather. If not checked, it can lead to moisture, condensation and draughts inside your home.
A professional can usually solve this issue. They will be able to replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original state. They will also suggest features that will reduce future stress cracks, like trickle ventilation to improve ventilation.
You can also grease the hinges and handles of your doors and windows. This will allow them move more smoothly and let the lock perform as it was intended. Apply lubricating oil to a clean cloth and rub it into the handles and hinges, as well as places where they go through the frame (for instance, windows with sash). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from their frames and clean them with warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit which has become stuck to them.
If your uPVC windows and doors aren't functioning as they should, it's essential to contact a professional to fix them. They can pinpoint the issue quickly and repair it in a brief time. double glazing repair 's a lot safer and more affordable than attempting to fix it yourself and potentially damaging the mechanism. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.