Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window doesn't close, it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. This can also compromise the security of your home and puts you at greater chance of being burglarized.
Over time, double glazed window hinges handles, seals and handles can be damaged. If this is the case it could affect how your windows work and could invalidate any warranty you may have.
double glazing window repairs put anti-burglar systems on their main doors and gates However, they tend to overlook that windows are prime targets for burglars. Incorrect locks can lead to draughts in the home, allowing valuable heat to escape and weaken your home's security.
If your uPVC windows locks do not function, it is most likely that the lock mechanism is blocked. This is usually because of a crack in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees, but not open. This is a common issue with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be present in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you can release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can help to unblock the gear box and allow the opening of the window. If this method does not work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are an internal locking system that secures the window utilising mushroom-like locking cams that are inserted into the frame keeps. The handle turns on the gearbox, which activates the cams for either up or down movement. The spindle of the lock may break and cause the handle to move but the window to either open or close.
A malfunctioning transmission may make your window appear locked however it's not. This could happen if the central rods (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 to restore the operation of your window.
It is important not to force an unbreakable lock or a stuck one. This can cause the lock to snap or break, especially if you have a uPVC windows that expands and contracts with temperature changes. It is best to contact an expert locksmith who will identify the issue and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Sticking doors and windows are an extremely annoying problem but they can also be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you're having difficulty to open or close a window or door it is crucial to seek professional help as soon as possible. This issue can be caused by a variety of causes, including foundation settlement or an absence of support in the crawl space.
Humidity or frame problems can cause doors and windows to become stuck. If your frames are made of wood, for instance, they can warp when exposed to moisture. This makes opening and closing them difficult even if the hardware in good shape. If this happens, the wood swells and pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
If your door or window sticks in the summer, try rubbing it with bar soap to reduce the friction. This will make it less swollen and could solve the issue temporarily. This procedure will have to be repeated periodically during times of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the door or window to create a smooth surface is a more permanent fix. It can be done by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also stain and sand or paint your window or door frame to make it look fresh and new.
If soaping or sanding doesn't solve the problem, it could be due to foundation settlement or a damaged crawlspace. Look for cracks in the area. It's time for you to consult a foundation specialist if you see any of these signs. Damage to the foundation can result in uneven floors, misaligned walls and stuck windows and doors. It is important to tackle these issues as early as possible in order to avoid costly and risky repairs in the future. If left unattended, these issues could escalate to the point that your entire home is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists today to schedule an inspection and repair!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can appear when double glazing starts to degrade. This can be ugly and allows all the heat that's built up within your home to escape. It could also pose an hazard for your family, since the glass pieces that are sharp could injure them if they are shattered. It is best to repair any double glazing windows that have cracks prior to it getting worse, as this will increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are crucial for keeping air in between the window panes and also to stop drafts from entering your home. As time passes, these seals can shrink or be destroyed because of changes in weather. If unchecked this could lead to moisture in the home as well as condensation and draughts.
A professional is usually able to resolve this issue. They will be able to replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original condition. They can also recommend additional features that will reduce the possibility of a stress crack occurring in the future, like trickle vents to improve ventilation.
It is also possible to try lubricating hinges and handles on your windows and doors. This will enable them move more smoothly and will allow the lock to perform as it was intended. Put some lubricating oils on a lint-free cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism and also in the places where they pass through the frame (for example, for sash windows). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from their frames and clean them by using warm water to get rid 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 important to call in a professional to fix them. They will be able to find the issue quickly and fix it in a short period of time. It's a lot safer and more affordable than trying to fix it yourself, and could cause damage to the mechanism. It will also give you peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure.