Double Glazing Locks Repair If a double-glazed window isn't closed, it creates drafts and allows valuable 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 can become damaged over time. If this happens it can impact the performance of your windows and invalidate any warranties you may have. The locks are not working properly Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main gates and doors, but they often forget that windows are also prime targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause draughts, let valuable heat escape, and reduce the security of your home. If your uPVC windows locks do not work, it's likely that the mechanism of the lock is blocked. This usually happens due to the gearbox breaking in one component. This can cause the handle to not open, but instead to rotate 360 degrees. This is a common problem with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be found in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows. If this happens 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 does not work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism entirely. Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window that secure the window using locks that look like mushrooms and are in the frame keep. The handle turns on the gearbox, which triggers the cams for either up or down movement. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock has been damaged which causes the handle to rotate freely, but not allowing the window to move open or close. A faulty gearbox can also cause your window to appear to be locked but not actually be. This could happen if the centre rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have been snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods if this happens. It is crucial not to force a stuck or broken lock. This could cause a lock to break or snap particularly if you have windows made of uPVC that expand and contracts when temperatures change. To avoid this problem, it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith to determine the problem and fix it. Sticky Doors/Window Windows and doors that stick are a major source of irritation however, they could also be a sign of more significant structural problems. If you find it difficult to open or close a window or door, it's important to seek help from a professional as soon as possible. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including foundation settlement or an absence of support in the crawl space. Doors and windows often are stuck due to humidity or a problem with the frame itself. If your frames are made of wood, for instance, they could warp when exposed to moisture. Even if double glazing repair appears great, this could make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood swells when this happens and pushes up against the hinges, causing friction. If your door or window sticks in the summer, try rubbing it with bar soap to decrease the friction. This will help it shrink and can resolve the issue temporarily. This solution may need to be repeated periodically during times of high moisture. Sanding the frame of the door or window to a smooth finish is a more durable fix. This can be done either by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also sand and paint or stain your frame or door to make it look brand new once more. If soaping or sanding don't help, your problem may be caused by foundation settlement or a weak crawlspace. Examine for cracks in your area. If you notice these indications, you need to call in a professional in foundation repair. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors, walls that are not aligned and stuck windows and doors. It is important to take care of these issues as soon as possible in order to avoid costly and dangerous repairs in the future. These issues can get worse until your home becomes unsafe to live in if it is not taken care of. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists today to arrange an inspection and repair service! Cracking/Blowing Issues Cracks can develop when double glazing begins to break down. It can be unappealing and also allow all the heat that has been stored within your home to escape. It could also pose a safety risk for your family, as the glass's sharp edges could cause injuries in the event that they break. It is recommended to fix any double-glazing window that have a crack prior to them get worse. This will increase the cost of replacement. Window seals are vital to keep air out between your window panes, and they also stop drafts from entering your home. However, over time, they can become perished or shrink due to weather changes. If not taken care of this could lead to moisture in the home as well as condensation and draughts. This issue is usually solved by a professional. They will be able to replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original condition. They will also suggest other features that will reduce the possibility of a stress crack occurring in the future, such as trickle vents for improved ventilation. You can also grease the handles and hinges of your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily, and the lock to function as it was intended. Apply lubricating oil to a clean cloth and rub it into the handles and hinges, and also in the places where they go through the frame (for example, for windows with sash). It can also be helpful to remove the handles from the frames and clean them with warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit which has been stuck to them. If your uPVC windows and doors are not functioning as they should, it's crucial to contact a professional to fix them. They will be able to identify the problem quickly and then resolve it in a short space of time. It's a lot safer and more affordable than trying to fix it yourself and could cause damage to the mechanism. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is secure and safe.
double glazing repair
