Double Glazing Locks Repair

When a double glazing window replacement doesn't close, it causes draughts and allows heat to escape. It also reduces the security of your home and puts you at risk of burglary.

Double glazed window seals, hinges, and handles may break down over time. If this is the case it can affect how your windows function and invalidate any warranty you have.

The locks are not working properly

While many take great care in installing anti-burglar security systems for their gates as well as main doors, it is often overlooked that windows are the most popular targets for burglars. Poorly secured locks can cause drafts, allow valuable heat escape, and reduce the security of your home.

If you find that your uPVC window locks are not functioning, there is likely that the mechanism for locking is stuck. This is typically caused by a split in a gearbox component. This could cause the handle not to open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a problem that is common with uPVC windows, however it can also occur in tilt-and turn windows and sliding sash window.

In this situation, it is possible to unlock the lock by applying pressure on the lever handle. This will unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this doesn't work then you might need to replace the entire mechanism of the window lock.

Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are an internal locking system that secures the window by employing locking cams shaped like mushrooms which are inserted into frame keeps. The handle is the one that operates the gearbox which then activates the cams to move upwards or downwards. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged, causing the handle to move freely but not allowing the window to move open or close.

A damaged gearbox may cause your window to appear to be locked but not actually be. This is usually the case when the rods in the centre (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) within the gearbox have broken off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods in the event that this happens.

It is important to not force a stuck or broken lock. This can cause the lock to snap or break - especially with a uPVC window because it expands and contracts as it warms and cools. To prevent this from happening issue, you should seek out a professional locksmith to determine the problem and fix it.

Sticky Doors/Window

Sticking doors and windows are a major source of irritation but they can be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you're having difficulty to open or close a door or window, it's important to seek help from a professional whenever you can. These issues can be the result of many things that include foundation settlement as well as weak crawl space support.

Humidity or frame problems could cause windows and doors to become stuck. If your frames are made of wood, for instance, they may become brittle when exposed to humidity. This can make opening and closing them difficult, even if the hardware is in good condition. If this happens the wood expands and pushes against the hinges, causing friction.

If your door or window Doctor Near me gets stuck in the summer, try rubbing it with bar soap to decrease the friction. This will allow it to shrink and can resolve the issue temporarily. This method will need to be repeated sporadically during times of high humidity.

Sanding the frame of the door or window to a smooth surface is a more permanent fix. This can be done either 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 the sanding and soap don't help it's likely that your problem stems from foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. Check for cracks in the area. If you notice these indications, you need to call a professional in foundation repair. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors, a misaligned wall and stuck windows and doors. It is important to tackle these issues as early as you can to avoid expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. These issues could escalate until your home is unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Call the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection now!

Cracking/Blowing Issues

Cracks can develop when double glazing begins to degrade. This could be a disconcerting appearance and allow the heat inside your home to escape. It also poses an hazard for your family members, as the sharp pieces of glass can cause injury in the event that they break. It is recommended to fix any double glazing windows that show a crack before it gets worse, as this will increase the cost of replacing them.

Window seals are essential to stop drafts from entering the home and to keep air between your window panes. As time passes, these seals will shrink or eventually get damaged due to changes in the weather. Unchecked, it can lead to moisture, condensation and draughts within your home.

This issue can usually be resolved by a professional. They can replace the window seal to restore your windows back to their original state of repair. They can also recommend additional features that will reduce the possibility of a stress fracture occurring in the future, such as trickle vents to improve ventilation.

You could also try lubricating hinges and handles on your windows and doors. This will enable them to move more easily, and the lock to function as intended. Rub some lubricating oil on a lint free cloth and then rub them into hinges, handle mechanism and places where they go through frames (for instance, a sash window doctor). It can also be helpful to remove handles from their frames and clean them with warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit that has become stuck to them.

It is important to contact an expert when your uPVC doors and windows aren't working as they should. They will be able to identify the problem quickly and fix it in a short period of time. It is a lot cheaper and more secure than trying to do it yourself and potentially damaging the mechanisms. You'll also be able to rest in peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure.