3 Reasons 3 Reasons Why Your Double Glazing Locks Repair Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window does not close, it causes drafts that allow heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and exposes you to burglary.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges handles, seals and handles can be damaged. If this is the case it can affect how your windows function and invalidate any warranty you may have.
Faulty Locks
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main gates and doors however, they forget that windows are the most frequent targets for burglars. Having double glazing repair near me could cause drafts to enter the home, allowing valuable heat to escape, and weaken the security of your home.
If you're uPVC windows locks don't function, it is most likely that the lock mechanism is jammed. This is usually because of a crack in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to turn 360 degrees but not open. This is a common problem with uPVC casement windows, but is also present in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
When this happens, it is possible to unlock the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This can help to unblock the gear box and allow 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 which are inserted into frame keeps. The handle operates the gearbox that then triggers the cams to either move upwards or downwards. The most frequent issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged and the handle is unable to rotate freely, but not to move the window open or close.
A damaged transmission could make your window appear locked but it's not. This could happen if the rods in the centre (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have broken off. Misty Glaze will supply and replace the rods if this happens.
It is important to not force a broken or stuck lock. This could cause the lock to break or snap - particularly with a window made of uPVC that expands and shrinks as it warms up and cools. To avoid this, it is best to seek out a professional locksmith to diagnose the issue and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's a nuisance to have doors and windows that stick and sag, but they can be a sign of more serious structural problems. If you find it difficult to open or close a window or door it is important to seek professional help immediately. These problems can be caused by a variety of causes such as foundation settlement or a lack of support in the crawl space.
Frame problems or humidity can cause windows and doors to stick. When exposed to moisture, wooden frames can warp. This could make opening and closing them a challenge, even if the hardware in good shape. The wood swells as it expands and pushes up against the hinges, causing friction.
Rub the door or window with soap to lessen friction if it sticks in the summer. This will shrink it and could temporarily resolve the issue. This method will need to be repeated frequently during times of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the window or door to a smooth surface is a better and more lasting solution. It can be done either by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also sand and paint, or stain your door or frame to make it look new and fresh.
If sanding or soaping doesn't help, your problem may be due to foundation settlement or a damaged crawlspace. Look for cracks in the area. It's time for you to consult an expert in foundation when you spot any of these indications. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven flooring and sloping interior walls and, in turn, sticking doors and windows. It is important to address these issues as early as you can to avoid costly and risky repairs in the future. If ignored, these issues could escalate to the point where your entire house is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair experts today to schedule an inspection and repair service!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing starts to wear down, it could cause cracks to appear. This can be an unsightly sight, and can also allow all the heat in your home to escape. It also poses a safety threat for your family members as the glass pieces can cause injury in the event of a break. It is recommended to repair any double-glazed windows that have cracks prior to it getting worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing them.
Window seals are vital to prevent drafts from entering your home and to keep air between the window panes. Over time, these seals can shrink or be destroyed due to changes in weather. If not taken care of this could lead to condensation in the home as well as condensation and draughts.
This issue is typically resolved by an expert. They can replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original state. They may also suggest additional features that will reduce the chance of a stress crack occurring in the future, such as trickle vents to improve ventilation.
You can also try lubricating the hinges and handles on your windows and doors. This will allow them move more easily and allow the lock to perform as it was intended. Rub some lubricating oil on a cloth that is free of lint and then rub them into the hinges or handle mechanism, as well as places where they pass through frames (for instance, a sash window). It may also be beneficial to remove the handles from their frames and wash them with warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit that may have become stuck to them.
It is important to contact an expert if you find that your uPVC doors and windows are not working as they should. They can determine the issue quickly and fix it in a short space of time. It's a lot less expensive and safer than trying to do it yourself and possibly damaging the mechanisms. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.