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 shut, it creates draughts that allow valuable heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.
Over time, double glazed window hinges handles, seals and handles can become damaged. If this is the case it could affect how your windows function and invalidate any warranty you have.
Faulty Locks
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates, but they often forget that windows are also prime targets for burglars. Insecure locks can lead to drafts, let heat escape and compromise the security of your home.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't working, there's likely that the lock mechanism has become jammed. This is usually due to a slit in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle to turn 360 degrees, but not open. This is a common problem with uPVC casement windows, but can also be seen in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.
When this happens, it is possible to release the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This will allow you to open the gear box and allow the opening of the window. If this doesn't work it is possible to replace the entire window lock mechanism.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. double glazing repairs are a locking system inside the window that secures the window utilising mushroom-like locking cams that are built into the frame keeps. The handle controls the gearbox which then activates the cams, causing them to move up or down. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged which causes the handle to turn freely but not allowing the window to move open or shut.
A faulty transmission can also make your window appear to be locked however it's not. This can happen when the central rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have snapped off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacements for these rods to restore the operation of your window.
It is not advisable to force an unbreakable lock or stuck lock. This can cause the lock to break or snap particularly if you have a uPVC windows that expands and contracts as temperatures change. To prevent this from happening, it is best to seek out a professional locksmith to identify the problem and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's a nuisance to have doors and windows that stick however, they could be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you are unable to open or close a window or door it is crucial to seek out professional assistance immediately. This issue can result from a variety of reasons, including foundation settlement or the lack of support in the crawl space.
Windows and doors can stick because of humidity or the frame itself. If your frames are wood, for instance, they could warp when exposed to humidity. Even if the hardware appears good, this can make it difficult to open and close your frames. When this happens, the wood swells and presses against the hinges, causing friction.
If your door or window gets stuck in the summer and you are unable to get it to close, try using bar soap to lessen the friction. This will make it less swollen and may resolve the problem temporarily. This solution may need to be repeated frequently during periods of high moisture.
Sanding the frame of the window or door to create a smooth surface is a better and more lasting fix. This can be done by hand or with the power tool. A professional can also sand down and stain or paint your window or door frame to make it look fresh and new.
If sanding or soaping 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 to contact an expert in foundations if you see any of these indications. Foundation damage can lead to uneven floors and a misaligned interior wall and, in turn, sticking doors and windows. It is important to tackle these issues as early as possible to avoid more expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. If left unattended these issues can 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 today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing begins to degrade, it can cause cracks to develop. This can be an unsightly sight, and can also allow the heat inside your home to escape. It could also pose a safety risk for your family, as the glass pieces that are sharp could injure them when they break. It is recommended to fix any double-glazed windows that have a crack before it gets worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are crucial for keeping air in between the window panes and also for stopping drafts from entering your home. Over time, these seals may shrink or even be destroyed because of changes in weather. If not taken care of, it could cause condensation, moisture and draughts inside your home.
This issue is typically resolved by a professional. They can repair the window seal and restore your windows back to their original condition. They can also recommend features that can reduce the risk of stress cracks, such as trickle ventilation for better ventilation.
You could also try lubricating the hinges as well as handles on your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily, and the lock to function as it was intended. Rub lubricating oils onto a lint free cloth and then rub them into the hinges and handle mechanism as well as in places where they go through frames (for instance, a window with sash). It may also be beneficial to remove handles from the frames and clean them with warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit which has been sunk into them.
It is important to contact a professional if your uPVC doors and windows aren't functioning as they should. They can determine the issue quickly and resolve the issue within a short amount of time. It is a lot cheaper and more secure than trying to do it yourself and possibly harming the mechanism. You will also have peace of mind knowing your home is secure and secure.