So , You've Bought Double Glazing Locks Repair ... Now What?
Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window won't close it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. double glazing repairs near me weakens the security of your home and puts you at a higher risk of being a victim of burglary.
Double glazed window seals, hinges and handles can break down over time. If this happens, it can affect the performance of your windows and cancel any warranties you might have.
The locks are not working properly
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates However, they tend to forget that windows are prime targets for burglars. Poorly secured locks can cause drafts, let heat escape and weaken the security of your house.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't working, there's likely that the mechanism for locking is blocked. This is usually because of a crack in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to turn 360 degrees, but not fully open. This is a common issue with uPVC casement windows, but can also be found in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and restore the window's opening. If this does nothing, you may have to replace the entire mechanism of the window lock.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window which secure the window by using mushroom-shaped locking cams in the frame keep. The handle activates the gearbox, which activates the cams for either upward or down movement. The most frequent issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged, causing the handle to turn freely but not to move the window open or close.
A malfunctioning transmission may cause your window to appear locked however it's not. This is because the rods in the centre, also referred to as crocodile teeth fixings in the gearbox snap off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods if this happens.
It is not advisable to force the lock to break or get stuck one. This could cause a lock to snap or break, especially if you have windows made of uPVC which expands and contracts with temperature changes. To prevent this from happening issue, you should contact a professional locksmith to diagnose the issue and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It is annoying to have windows and doors that don't close and sag, but they can be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you are unable to open or close a door or window it is important to seek help from a professional immediately. The issue could be a result of many things, including foundation settlement and weak crawl space support.
Humidity or frame problems can cause doors and windows to stick. If your frames are made of wood, for instance, they can be prone to warping when exposed to moisture. This can make opening and closing them difficult, even if the hardware in good shape. If this happens, the wood swells and pushes against the hinges, causing friction.
Rub the window or door with soap to decrease friction if it gets stuck in the summer. This will allow it to shrink and can resolve the issue temporarily. This solution will need to be repeated periodically during periods of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the door or window to a smooth finish is a better and more lasting fix. You can do this by hand or using an electric tool. A professional can also stain, sand and paint your door or window frame to make it appear new again.
If the sanding and soap don't help it's likely the issue is due to foundation settlement or a damaged crawl space. Examine for cracks in your area. If you notice these indications, you need to contact a foundation repair specialist. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors and misaligned interior walls, which in turn causes sticking windows and doors. It is important to address these issues as early as you can to avoid costly and dangerous repairs in the future. If left unattended, these issues could escalate to the point that your entire home's structure is unstable. Contact the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can appear when double glazing starts to degrade. It can be unappealing and also allow all the heat that has been build up within your home to escape. It also poses an hazard for your family, since the sharp pieces of glass could cause injuries if they are shattered. It is recommended to fix any double glazing windows that show a crack before it gets worse, since this could increase the cost of replacing them.
Window seals are vital to keep air between the window panes and they also stop drafts from entering your home. However, as time passes, these will deteriorate or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not checked, it can cause condensation, moisture, and draughts in your home.
This issue is usually resolved by a professional. They can replace the window seal to restore your windows to their original condition. They can also recommend features that can reduce the risk of stress cracks, such as trickle ventilation to improve ventilation.
It is also possible to lubricate the hinges and handles of your windows and door. This will enable them move more smoothly and will allow the lock to function as it should. Rub some lubricating oil on a lint-free cloth and then rub them into hinges or handle mechanism, as well as areas where they pass through frames (for instance, a sash window). It is also beneficial to remove handles from the frames and clean them by using warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit that has become stuck to them.
It is important to contact an expert when you find that your uPVC windows and doors aren't working as they should. They can find the issue quickly and resolve the issue within a short amount of time. It is a lot cheaper and more secure than trying do it yourself and potentially harming the mechanism. It will also give you peace of mind knowing your home is secure and safe.