Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window doesn't close, it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at greater chance of being burglarized.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges, handles and seals can be damaged. If this is the case it could affect the way your windows work and could invalidate any warranty you may have.
Faulty Locks
Many people put anti-burglar systems on their main doors and gates however, they forget that windows are also the most frequent targets for burglars. Having faulty locks could cause drafts to enter the home, allowing valuable heat to escape and also weaken your home's security.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't functioning, there is an excellent chance that the mechanism for locking is stuck. This usually occurs due to a split in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle not to open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a problem that is common with uPVC windows, but it can also occur in tilt-and-turn windows and sliding sash window.
In this situation it is possible to unlock the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This can be used to unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this doesn't work 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. The handle operates the gearbox, which causes the cams to move upwards or downwards. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged and the handle is unable to turn freely but not allowing the window to move open or close.
A damaged gearbox may cause your window to appear locked, but isn't actually. This is usually the case when the rods in the centre (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) within the gearbox have been snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and replace the rods if this occurs.
It is crucial not to force a broken lock or a stuck one. double glazing repairs could cause a lock to snap or break in particular if you are using a uPVC windows that expands and contracts when temperatures change. It is best to call a professional locksmith who can diagnose the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Sticking doors and windows are an extremely annoying problem, but they can be a sign of more serious structural problems. If you're having difficulty to open or close a door or window, it's important to seek help from a professional whenever you can. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons like foundation settlement or an absence of support in the crawl space.
Frame or humidity issues can cause windows and doors to stick. When exposed to moisture, wooden frames can begin to warp. This can make opening and closing them difficult even if the hardware in good condition. If this happens, the wood swells and presses against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the window or door with soap to lessen friction, especially if it is stuck in the summer. This will shrink it and may help temporarily solve the issue. This procedure will have to be repeated sporadically during times of high humidity.
A more permanent fix involves making the door or window frame to give it a smooth finish. This can be done by hand or using a power tool. A professional can also sand and paint or stain your frame or door to make it look new again.
If sanding and soap aren't helping it's likely that your problem stems from foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. Look for cracks in the area. It's time to contact an expert in foundations If you notice any of these indications. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors and a misaligned interior wall, which in turn causes sticking doors and windows. It is crucial to address these issues as early as possible to avoid more expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. If not addressed, these issues could escalate to the point that your entire home's structure is unstable. Call the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists to set up an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can develop when double glazing begins to break down. This could be a disconcerting appearance and allow all the heat in your home to escape. This can also pose a safety threat to your family, as the sharp glass pieces could cause injuries if they break. It is better to fix double-glazing windows with cracks before they get worse. This will increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are essential to keep air between the window panes and they also stop drafts from entering your home. However, over time, they can become perished or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not taken care of, it could result in condensation, moisture and draughts inside your home.
A professional will usually be able to solve 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 can reduce the likelihood of a stress fracture occurring in the future, for example trickle vents for better ventilation.
You can also grease the hinges and handles of your doors and windows. This will help them move more smoothly and will allow the lock to function as it should. Apply lubricating oil to a lint-free cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism, and also in the places that they pass through the frame (for example, sash windows). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from their frames and clean them with warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit that has been sunk into them.
It is crucial to contact an expert when your uPVC windows and doors are not working as they should. They will be able to identify the issue quickly and fix it in a short time. It's a lot safer and more affordable than trying to fix the issue yourself and could cause damage to the mechanism. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.