Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window doesn't close, it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.
Double glazed window seals, hinges, and handles can break down over time. If double glazing repair near me is the case, it could affect the way your windows function and void any warranty you may have.
Locks that aren't working
While a lot of people 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. Faulty locks can cause drafts, let heat escape and compromise the security of your house.
If your uPVC windows locks do not work, it's likely that the mechanism of the lock is blocked. This is typically due to a split in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle not to open, but instead to turn 360 degrees. This is a common problem with uPVC casement windows, but can also be seen in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens you can unlock the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This will unlock the gearbox and reopen the window's opening. If this does nothing then you might need to replace the entire mechanism for locking windows.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window that secure the window using locks that look like mushrooms and are in the frame keep. The handle is the trigger for the gearbox, which triggers the cams for either upward or down movement. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock is damaged and the handle is unable to move freely but not move the window open or close.
A faulty transmission can also make your window appear to be locked but it's not. This is usually the case when the rods in the centre (sometimes known as crocodile teeth fixings) in the gearbox have been snapped off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacements for these rods in order to restore the function of your window.
It is important not to force a broken lock or a stuck one. This can cause the lock to break or snap particularly if you have a uPVC windows that expands and contracts when temperatures change. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith to diagnose the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is a serious annoyance however, they could also be a sign of more serious structural problems. If you are unable to open or close a door or window it is crucial to seek out professional assistance as soon as possible. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, including foundation settlement or a lack of support for the crawl space.
Frame problems or humidity could cause windows and doors to stick. When exposed to moisture, wooden frames may 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 expands and presses against the hinges, causing friction.
If your window or door gets stuck in the summer, try rubbing it with bar soap to reduce the friction. This will make it less swollen and can resolve the issue temporarily. This solution may need to be repeated regularly during periods of high moisture.
A more permanent solution involves making the door or window frame to create a smooth finish. This can be done by hand or using the power tool. A professional can also sand, paint or stain your door or frame to make it look brand new once more.
If Sanding and soap aren't working, it's likely that your issue is caused by foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. The first thing you need to look for cracks around the affected area. If you notice these signs, it's time to call in a foundation repair specialist. Foundation damage can cause uneven flooring and sloping interior walls which can lead to stuck doors and windows. It is important to tackle these issues as early as possible in order to avoid costly and risky repairs in the future. These issues could escalate until your home is unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Contact the Southeast's most renowned foundation repair experts today to set up an inspection and repair!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can form when double glazing begins to degrade. This could be a disconcerting sight and also allow all the heat in your home to escape. This can also pose an injury risk for your family members as the sharp glass pieces could cause injuries if they break. It is best to repair any double-glazing windows that have a crack prior to them become worse. This will increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are vital to keep air out between your window panes and also to stop drafts from entering your home. However, over time these can become perished or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not taken care of this could lead to humidity in the home, condensation and draughts.
A professional is usually able to resolve this issue. They can repair the window seal to restore your windows back to their original state of repair. They may also suggest additional features that will reduce the likelihood of a stress fracture occurring in the future, for example trickle vents to improve ventilation.
It is also possible to lubricate the hinges and handles of your doors and windows. This will enable them move more easily and let the lock perform as it was intended. Put some lubricating oils on a clean cloth and rub it into the handles and hinges, as well as places that they pass through the frame (for instance, windows with sash). It can also be helpful to remove the handles from their frames and clean them by using warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit that may have been stuck to them.
If your uPVC doors and windows aren't functioning as they should, it's essential to contact a professional to fix them. They can identify the problem quickly and then resolve it in a short period of time. It's safer and less expensive 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 safe and secure.