Double Glazing Locks Repair If a double-glazed window does not shut, it creates drafts that allow heat to escape. This also reduces the security of your home and puts you at a higher risk of burglary. Double glazed window seals, hinges, and handles can become damaged over time. If this is the case, it could affect how your windows function and void any warranty you have. Locks with a problem While a lot of people take great care when installing anti-burglar security systems for their gates and doors, it is often overlooked that the windows are prime targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause drafts, let heat escape, and reduce the security of your home. If you're uPVC windows locks don't function, it is most likely that the lock mechanism is jammed. This usually occurs because of a crack in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle not to open, but instead to rotate 360 degrees. This is a common issue with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be seen in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows. If this happens, release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This will allow you to open the gear box and allow the opening of the window. If this method does not work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism entirely. Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are an internal locking system that secures the window by utilising mushroom-like locking cams that are inserted into the frame. The handle controls the gearbox which then activates the cams, causing them to move up or down. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock has broken and the handle is unable to rotate freely, but not to move the window open or close. A faulty transmission can also make your window appear to be locked however it's not. This can occur when the centre rods, also known as crocodile teeth fixings within the gearbox break off. Misty Glaze will supply and replace the rods if this occurs. It is important not to force a broken lock or stuck one. This could cause the lock to break or snap - especially with a uPVC window as it expands and shrinks as it warms up and cools. To avoid this, it is best to seek out a professional locksmith to determine the problem and repair it. Sticky Doors/Window It is annoying to have doors and windows that don't close and sag, 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 is important to seek help from a professional immediately. This could be the result of a variety of things such as foundation settlement and inadequate support for crawl spaces. Humidity or frame problems can cause windows and doors to become stuck. When exposed to moisture, wood frames may begin to warp. Even if the hardware looks great, this could make it difficult to open and close your frames. If this happens the wood expands and pushes against the hinges, creating friction. Rub the window or door with soap to reduce friction if it gets stuck in the summer. This will make it smaller and could temporarily resolve the issue. This solution may need to be repeated periodically during times of high moisture. Sanding the frame of the window or door to create a smooth surface is a more durable solution. You can do this either by hand or with the power tool. A professional can also sand and paint or stain your door or frame to make it look brand new and fresh. If soaping or sanding don't solve the problem, it could be caused by foundation settlement or a compromised crawlspace. Look for cracks in the area. If you see these indications, you need to call a foundation repair specialist. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors, misaligned walls and doors that are stuck. It is important to take care of these issues as soon as possible in order to avoid costly and risky repairs in the future. These issues can escalate until your home becomes structurally unstable if left unattended. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists to set up an inspection today! Cracking/Blowing Issues When double glazing begins to degrade, it can cause cracks to form. This could be a disconcerting sight, and can also let all the heat from your home to escape. It can also be a safety risk for your family, since the glass's sharp edges could injure them when they break. It is recommended to fix any double-glazing window with cracks before they get worse. This will increase the cost of replacement. double glazing repairs are vital for keeping air in between your window panes and also for stopping drafts from entering your home. Over time, these seals can shrink or get damaged due to changes in the weather. If not taken care of, it could cause condensation, moisture, and draughts in your home. A professional will usually be able to solve this issue. They can replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original condition. They may also suggest additional features that will reduce the chance of a stress crack forming in the future, for example trickle vents to improve ventilation. You could also try lubricating hinges and handles on your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily and allow the lock to function as it should. Apply lubricating oil to a clean cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism as well as the areas where they go through the frame (for example, windows with sash). You can also take off the handles and clean them in warm soapy water to get rid of any dirt or dust. If your uPVC windows and doors are not functioning as they should, it is crucial to contact an expert to fix them. They will be able to identify the issue quickly, and then solve it in a short time. It's a lot less expensive and safer than trying to fix it yourself and risk damaging the mechanisms. You'll also be able to rest in peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.
double glazing repairs