Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window does not shut, it creates draughts that allow valuable heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at greater risk of burglary.
Double-glazed window seals, hinges, and handles can break down over time. If this is the case, it could affect the way your windows work and could invalidate any warranty you may have.
The locks are not working properly
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main gates and doors however, they forget that windows are also prime targets for burglars. Incorrect locks can lead to draughts in the house, allow valuable heat to escape and weaken the security of your home.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't functioning, there is a good chance that the lock mechanism is blocked. This is usually due to a slit in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle not to open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a common problem with uPVC casement windows, but is also found in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, it is possible to unlock the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This will unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this does nothing, you may have to replace the entire mechanism for locking windows.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window which secure the window by using mushroom-shaped locking cams that are inserted into the frame keep. The handle controls the gearbox, which causes the cams, causing them to move upwards or downwards. The spindle of the lock may break which causes the handle to move but the door to either open or close.
A damaged transmission could make your window appear to be locked however it's not. This is because the centre rods, also known as crocodile tooth fixings in the gearbox snap off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and install replacement rods in order to restore the function of your window.
It is crucial not to force a broken lock or a stuck one. 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. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith to determine the issue and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Sticking doors and windows are a major source of irritation however, they could also be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you find it difficult to open or close a window or door, it's important to seek out professional assistance as soon as possible. The issue could be the result of a variety of things that include foundation settlement as well as weak crawl space support.
Frame or humidity issues can cause windows and doors to become stuck. When exposed to moisture, wooden frames may begin to warp. This could make opening and closing them difficult even if the hardware in good shape. The wood expands as it expands and pushes against the hinges, causing friction.
Rub the door or window with soap to reduce friction if it gets stuck in the summer. This will help it shrink and could solve the issue temporarily. This solution will need to be repeated sporadically during periods of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the door or window to create a smooth surface is a more permanent fix. This can be done by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also stain and sand or paint your window or door frame to make it appear like new.
If soaping or sanding doesn't help, your problem may be due to foundation settlement or a compromised crawlspace. The first thing you should look for cracks around the affected area. If you spot these indications, you need to call in an expert in foundation repair. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors and misaligned interior walls, which in turn causes sticking doors and windows. To avoid expensive and dangerous repairs, it's important to address these issues as soon as you can. These issues could escalate until your home is unsafe to live in if it is not taken care of. Call the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists to schedule an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can form when double glazing starts to degrade. This can be a snazzy sight, and can also let all the heat from your home to escape. It can also be a safety risk for your family members, as the glass pieces that are sharp could injure them if they are shattered. It is better to fix any double-glazing window with cracks before they get worse. double glazing repair will increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are crucial to stop drafts from entering the home and keep air in between your window panes. Over time, these seals will shrink or eventually become perished due to changes in the weather. If not checked, it can result in condensation, moisture, and draughts in your home.
This issue is typically solved by an expert. They can replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original condition. They will also suggest other features that can reduce the likelihood of a stress fracture occurring in the future, like trickle vents for better ventilation.
You can also grease the handles and hinges on your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily and the lock to function as it should. Put some lubricating oils on a cloth that is free of lint and rub it into the handles and hinges, and also in the places where they go through the frame (for instance, sash windows). 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 essential to speak with a professional if you find that your uPVC windows and doors aren't functioning as they should. They can identify the problem quickly, and then fix it in a short time. It's safer and less expensive than attempting to fix it yourself and possibly damaging the mechanisms. It will also give you peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.