Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double glazing window doesn't close, it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. It also reduces your security measures for your home and puts you at risk of burglary.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges, handles and seals can be damaged. If this is the case, it can affect how your windows function and void any warranty you have.
Faulty Locks
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main gates and doors, but they often forget that windows are prime targets for burglars. A poor lock can lead to draughts in the home, allowing valuable heat to escape, and weaken the security of your home.
If you find that your uPVC windows locks don't work, it's likely that the lock mechanism is jammed. This is usually because of a crack in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to not open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This issue is typical of uPVC windows, however it is also a problem in tilt-and-turn windows and sliding sash window.
If this happens, you can release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and restore the opening of the window. If this doesn't work, you may have to replace the entire mechanism of the window lock.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are internal locking systems which secure the window by using the shape of a mushroom and locking cams that are inserted into the frame keep. The handle controls the gearbox which then activates the cams to move up or down. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock has broken which causes the handle to rotate freely, but not move the window open or shut.
A damaged transmission could make your window appear locked however it's not. This is usually the case when the central rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods if this occurs.
It is not advisable to force an unbreakable lock or stuck lock. This could cause a lock to break or snap in particular if you are using windows made of uPVC which expands and contracts with temperature changes. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who can diagnose the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Windows and doors that stick are a major source of irritation, but they can be a sign of more significant structural problems. If you find it difficult to open or close a window or door it is important to seek out professional assistance as soon as possible. These issues can be a result of various factors, including foundation settlement and weak crawl space support.
Frame problems or humidity could 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 is in good shape. In this case the wood expands and presses against the hinges, causing friction.
If your door or window is sagging in summer and you are unable to get it to close, try using bar soap to decrease the friction. double glazing repairs Bromley will shrink and could temporarily resolve the issue. This method will need to be repeated frequently during times of high humidity.
A more permanent solution is making the door or window frame to give it a smooth finish. This can be done by hand or using a power tool. A professional can also sand, paint or stain your door or frame to make it look new and fresh.
If Sanding and soap aren't working it's likely your issue is caused by foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. Check for cracks in the area. It's time to contact an expert in foundations If you notice any of these signs. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors and misaligned interior walls and, in turn, stuck doors and windows. To avoid the need for costly and risky 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. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can develop when double glazing begins to break down. This could be a disconcerting sight, and can also allow all the heat in your home to escape. It can also be a safety risk for your family, as the glass pieces that are sharp could cause injuries if they are shattered. It is recommended to fix double-glazing windows with a crack before they get worse. This can increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are vital to prevent drafts from entering your home and to keep air between the window panes. However, as time passes, these will deteriorate or shrink due to weather changes. If left unchecked this could lead to humidity in the home condensation, draughts and condensation.
A professional will usually be able to solve this problem. They will be able to replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original state. They will also suggest other features that will decrease the chance of a stress crack forming in the future, like trickle vents for better ventilation.
It is also possible to lubricate the handles and hinges on your windows and door. This will allow them to move more easily and allow the lock to function as it was intended. Apply lubricating oil to a lint-free cloth and rub it into the handles and hinges, as well as places that they pass through the frame (for instance, windows with sash). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from their frames and wash them by using warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit that may have become stuck to them.
If your uPVC windows and doors are not functioning in the way they should, it's important to call in an expert to fix them. They will be able to find the issue quickly and then resolve it within a short amount of time. It's much safer and cheaper than trying to fix it yourself and possibly damaging the mechanisms. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is secure and safe.