Are You Getting The Most Of Your Double Glazing Locks Repair?
Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window won't close it creates drafts and allows valuable heat to escape. This can also compromise the security of your home and puts you at a greater chance of being burglarized.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges, handles and seals can become damaged. If this is the situation it could affect the functionality of your windows and void any warranties you may have.
Faulty Locks
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates However, they tend to forget that windows are also the most frequent targets for burglars. A poor lock could cause drafts to enter the house, allow valuable heat to escape, and weaken the security of your home.
If you're uPVC windows locks don't work, it is likely that the lock mechanism is jammed. This is typically due to a slit in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees but not open. This is a common issue with uPVC casement windows, but can also be seen in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you can unlock the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and allow the opening of the window. If this doesn't work then you might need to replace the entire window lock mechanism.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are a locking system inside the window that secures the window employing locking cams shaped like mushrooms that are built into the frame. The handle turns on the gearbox, which then activates the cams to allow either up or down movement. The most frequent issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged, causing the handle to move freely but not to move the window open or shut.
A faulty gearbox can also cause your window to appear locked, but it is not. This could happen if the central rods (sometimes known as crocodile teeth fixings) in the gearbox have snapped off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacement rods in order to restore the function of your window.
It is crucial not to force a broken lock or stuck lock. This can cause the lock to break or snap - especially with a uPVC window because it expands and contracts as it warms and cools. It is best to call a professional locksmith to diagnose the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It is annoying to find doors and windows that don't close however, they could be a sign of more serious structural problems. It is important to seek professional assistance if you're having difficulties closing or opening windows or doors. These issues can be a result of a variety of things such as foundation settlement and inadequate support for crawl spaces.
Frame problems or humidity could cause windows and doors to stick. When exposed to moisture, wood frames can warp. Even if your hardware appears nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood swells when this happens and pushes up against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the window or door with soap to lessen friction if it sticks in the summer. This will make it smaller and may help temporarily solve the problem. This solution will need to be repeated frequently during times of high humidity.
A more permanent fix involves making the door or window frame to give it a smooth finish. This can be done by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also stain, sand and paint your door or window frame to make it appear new again.
If sanding and soap aren't helping, it's likely that the issue is due to foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. The first thing you should do is check for cracks around the affected area. It's time to call an expert in foundations when you spot any of these signs. Foundation damage can lead to uneven floors and misaligned interior walls, which in turn causes stuck doors and windows. It's important to address these issues as early as possible to avoid more costly and risky repairs in the future. If ignored these issues can escalate to the point where your entire home's structure is unstable. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists to set up an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can form when double glazing starts to degrade. It can be unappealing and also allow all the heat that has been stored in your home to escape. This can also pose an injury risk for your family members as the sharp glass pieces could cause injuries when they break. It is best to repair any double-glazing windows with cracks before they get any worse. This will increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are crucial for keeping air in between the window panes and also to stop drafts from entering your home. However, over double glazing Canterbury , they may become damaged or shrink due to weather changes. If unchecked, this can lead to moisture in the home, condensation and draughts.
This issue can usually be solved by an expert. 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 fracture occurring in the future, for example trickle vents for better ventilation.
It is also possible to lubricate the handles and hinges of your windows and door. This will allow them to move more easily, and 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 the areas where they pass through the frame (for instance, windows with sash). You can also take off the handles and clean them in warm soapy water to get rid of any dirt or grit.
It is important to contact a professional if your uPVC doors and windows aren't functioning as they should. They will be able to determine the issue quickly and fix it in a short space of time. It's much less expensive and more secure than trying do it yourself and potentially harming the mechanism. You'll also be able to rest in peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.