Watch Out: How Double Glazing Window Locks Repairs Is Taking Over And What You Can Do About It
Double Glazing Window Locks Repairs
Repairing double glazing window locks is crucial to ensure the security of your home. The hinges and handles that are not in good condition can allow drafts to enter your home, making your windows vulnerable to burglars.
Fortunately, it's not difficult to repair stiff uPVC handles and locks without having to replace your door or window. Sometimes, cooling or lubricating your mechanism can help solve any issues.
Broken Glass
Over time, double-glazing window locks will wear down. If this happens, the handles could become difficult to open, or even locked shut. This could cause problems with ventilation and also create a security risk. It is essential to get the window repaired as soon as possible.
Double-glazed windows consist of two or more glass panes, with a gas between them to provide insulation. Seals also hold the panes together. If you see condensation between the glass panes, it is likely that one of these seals needs to be replaced. This will typically involve replacing just the one window pane and is much less expensive than replacing the entire window.
A blow-up seal inside a double glazed window usually causes cloudiness and condensation. This could result from a range of causes, including air leaks or excessive moisture in the house. If you spot the issue, it's crucial to contact a double glazing expert to replace the seal and gas in your double-glazed windows.
It is possible to replace just one pan of double-glazed glass, but it is not recommended without the assistance of a specialist. This is because it requires specialized tools and the proper expertise to perform the task safely. Attempting to do this yourself could result in damage to the window's frame, or even to your health.
Many people use the crowbar to open their double-glazed windows when it's stuck, but it will typically leave the window frame bruised and dented. A specialist in window repair can remove the handle from your window and open it without causing more damage. They can also transform the old window mechanisms into modern ones.
Over time, the hinges on windows will become stiffer and difficult to open, especially in areas that are noisy. It's important to regularly lubricate your window hinges using silicone spray. Be careful not to close the window using the handles or by closing it heavily. This can damage the hinges.
Broken Sash
This is a common problem for older double-glazed windows. It can be difficult to lock and open a windows if the upper sash has fallen out of its pocket. This is typically because the pins are disengaged or a balance shoe is disconnected. Every sash is unique and it is important to know how yours is set up before trying to fix it.
This can be solved by removing the sash, and then cleaning it thoroughly. This will reveal if it's still a good fit. If not, put in stoppers for sash to secure it. They can be bought on the internet or at many hardware stores. Once you've cleaned the sash, you can replace the beads that are parting, and lubricate the pulley axles with a Teflon or silicone spray. It's a good idea label the weights before you take them off to ensure that you return them correctly.
Another issue that is frequently encountered is a damaged handle. It's difficult to tell if your window handle is broken however there are a few signs. If the handle is stiff or clunky to operate or does not feel as if it's securely attached to the frame, then it's damaged.
It could be due to a lack of use or the handle could have been damaged or broken. In double glazing repairs Mile End could be damaged inside and unable to be repaired, but it's still worthwhile to try fixing it immediately you notice the problem.
To remove the window sash it is possible to take off hinges that attach it to the frame. This can be a tricky job, so it's important to have someone with you to help hold the sash and ensure it is steady. After removing the hinges it's necessary to clean them and the surrounding areas. It is also recommended to reconnect the hinges and then test the handle to make sure that it's functioning correctly. If it's not, you should consider replacing it. This will make your window as secure as possible.
Broken Handle
It's not unusual for window handles to break or deteriorate over time. As such, it's essential that damaged handles are repaired as fast as you can to avoid inability to function and security issues.
Fortunately, a window handle is fairly simple to replace. The window handle can be replaced by anyone with some DIY skills. Contrary to the sash that is secured using multiple bolts, a window handle only requires one or two screws. It is important to test the handle after it's been installed to make sure that it functions properly. This includes locking the handle and searching for any gaps which could allow drafts infiltrate your home or allow burglars to gain entry.
A common reason for a broken window handle is that it's damaged from use over and over again. A broken handle can also be caused by excessive stress or force. A window that is smashed or forced open can cause additional strain on the handle, which can increase the chance of injury, so it is always recommended to complete all handling operations slowly and gently.
Other causes of a damaged hand could be due to poor maintenance and aging or design problems. A lack of regular cleaning and lubrication may cause the handle to break down early, which is often the result of dirt or debris that builds up over time. The handle may also be damaged due to improper installation or alignment issues.
If the fixes previously mentioned don't work and the tasker isn't able to solve the issue, the Tasker may require access to and remove the lock mechanism itself. This could mean removal of the window frame, or breaking out the plastic bead and frame (to give more space). A replacement lock could then be fitted which matches the profile of the current uPVC handle. The new handle can be attached and the process can be completed. If this is the case the Tasker will offer a quote for repair costs.
A faulty Lock
It is crucial to repair any window locks that are damaged as soon as possible. A broken window can cause draughts, weaken security barriers and make your home more vulnerable to burglary. Window lock repairs are generally minimal, but it's better to consult a professional before the problem gets worse and cost you more money.
UPVC window handles come in two styles: cockspur handles and espagnolette handles. The first uses an internal rod to operate the cams in a mushroom shape that secure into window frame keepers. The latter comes with an attached handle to a spindle, which extends out of the rod to activate the lock's mushroom-like locking cams which are also referred to as locking mushrooms. The latch of the lock clips into the mortise, and it is then snared by the window frame.
Both types of UPVC window locks are prone to damage, particularly in older homes. This can happen when the sash becomes bent or misaligned, and it may even come loose. In these situations, the lock must be reinstalled in order to stop draughts and loss of energy efficiency. A Tasker can replace the defective locks for you and give you peace of mind knowing that your windows are protected from burglars.
The first thing that a Tasker will do to fix your double glazing window lock is examine it and find the issue. Once they have all the information, they'll make their tools prior to coming to your home. They'll typically bring a Phillips-head screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, wood putty and fine-grit sandpaper.
Tasker has to loosen screws that secure both pieces of the lock to the window frame if the sash isn't aligned properly. The Tasker will then take off the latch and then fill the mounting holes (if appropriate) with wood putty before sanding the area to make it flush with the rest.
If the lock is rusted, they'll clean it using a wire brush or oil, and then lubricate it with grease to ensure it's running smoothly. They'll also check if the latch is in good condition and then re-install it.