Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window will not shut, it creates drafts that allow heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.
Double glazed window seals, hinges, and handles can break down over time. If this is the case it could affect how your windows work and could invalidate any warranty you may have.
Locks with a problem
While a lot of people are careful when installing anti-burglar systems for their gates and main doors, it is often overlooked that windows are the most popular targets for burglars. Insecure locks can lead to drafts, let heat escape and weaken the security of your house.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't working, there is an excellent chance that the mechanism for locking has become jammed. This is typically caused by a split in a gearbox component. This could cause the handle to turn 360 degrees, but not open. This issue is typical of uPVC windows, however it can also happen in tilt-and-turn windows as well as sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you'll be able to release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This will unblock the gearbox and restore the window's opening. If this doesn't work it is possible to replace the entire mechanism of the window lock.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are internal locking systems that secure the window with mushroom-shaped locking cams inserted into the frame keep. The handle is the trigger for the gearbox, which activates the cams to allow either up or down movement. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock has broken and the handle is unable to rotate freely, but not allowing the window to move open or shut.
A faulty gearbox can also cause your window to appear to be locked, but it is not. This can occur when the centre rods, also known as crocodile tooth fixings, within the gearbox break off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and install replacement rods to restore the operation of your window.
It is not advisable to force a broken lock or stuck one. This could cause the lock to snap or break - especially with a uPVC window that expands and shrinks as it warms up and cools. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who can identify the issue and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is a serious annoyance, but they can be a sign of more significant structural problems. It is important to seek professional assistance if you're having difficulties closing or opening a door or window. These issues can be the result of many things, including foundation settlement and weak crawl space support.
Humidity or frame problems can cause doors and windows to stick. If your frames are wood, for instance, they could become brittle when exposed to humidity. Even if your hardware appears great, this could make it difficult to open and close your frames. When this happens the wood expands and presses against the hinges, causing friction.
Rub the window or door with soap to decrease friction if it gets stuck in summer. This will make it smaller and may temporarily solve the issue. This method may need to be repeated frequently during periods of high moisture.
A more permanent solution involves sanding 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 and paint, or stain your door or frame to make it look new once more.
If Sanding and soap aren't working, it's likely that the issue is due to foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. Check for cracks in the area. If you spot these signs, it's time to call in a professional in foundation repair. Foundation damage can cause uneven flooring and sloping interior walls and, in turn, sticking doors and windows. To avoid costly and dangerous repairs, it's important to deal with these issues as soon as you can. These issues can get worse until your home is unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair experts today to arrange an inspection and repair!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing begins to degrade, it can cause cracks to develop. This can be unsightly and also allow all the heat that has been stored in your home to escape. This could also pose a safety threat to your family as the sharp glass pieces could cause injuries when they break. It is best to fix any double-glazing window with a crack before they become worse. This can increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are essential to keep air out between your window panes and they also stop drafts from entering your home. However, over time, they may become damaged or shrink due to weather changes. If unchecked, this can lead to condensation in the home as well as condensation and draughts.
A professional can usually solve this issue. double glazing repair Reigate can replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original condition. They will also suggest options to reduce the chance of future stress cracks, like trickle ventilation for better air circulation.
You could also try lubricating hinges and handles on your doors and windows. This will enable them move more smoothly and will allow the lock to function as it should. Apply lubricating oil to 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 example, windows with sash). You can also take off the handles and wash them in warm soapy water to remove any dirt or dust.
It is crucial to contact an expert if you find that your uPVC doors and windows aren't functioning as they should. They can find the issue quickly and resolve the issue in a short period of time. It's safer and less expensive 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.