Double Glazing Locks Repair
If a double-glazed window does not close, it causes draughts that allow valuable heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.
Double-glazed window seals, hinges, and handles may break down over time. If this is the case, it can affect the performance of your windows and void any warranties you may have.
Faulty locks
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates, but they often overlook that windows are the most frequent targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause drafts, allow valuable heat escape and weaken the security of your house.
If you find that your uPVC windows locks do not work, it's likely that the mechanism of the lock is jammed. This is usually because of a crack in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to turn 360 degrees, but not fully open. This is a frequent issue with uPVC casement windows, but is also found in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you'll be able to release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can be used to unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this doesn't work it is possible to replace the entire mechanism for locking windows.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are internal locking systems that secure the window using mushroom-shaped locking cams that are inserted into the frame keep. The handle is the trigger for the gearbox, which activates the cams for either upward or down movement. The spindle of the lock may break, causing the handle not to move but the window to open or close.
A damaged gearbox may cause your window to appear to be locked, but isn't actually. Southend window repairs can occur when the rods that are the center, also known as crocodile tooth fixings, within the gearbox break off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacements for these rods to restore the operation of your window.
It is important not to force a broken lock or stuck one. This can cause the lock to break or snap particularly if you have windows made of uPVC which expands and contracts with temperature changes. To prevent this from happening, it is best to seek out a professional locksmith to determine the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's a nuisance to find doors and windows that don't close and sag, but they can be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you are unable to open or close a window or door it is important to seek help from a professional immediately. This could result from a variety of things, including foundation settlement and impaired crawl space support.
Frame or humidity issues can cause doors and windows to become stuck. If your frames are made of wood, for instance, they could warp when exposed to humidity. Even if the hardware looks great, this could make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood expands when this happens and pushes against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the door or window with soap to decrease friction, especially if it is stuck in the summer. It will shrink and may help temporarily solve the issue. This solution will need to be repeated periodically during periods of high humidity.
A more permanent solution is sanding the door or window frame to give it an even finish. This can be done by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also sand down and stain or paint your window or door frame to make it look new again.
If sanding and soap aren't helping it's likely that your problem stems from foundation settlement or a weak crawl space. Check for cracks in the area. If you notice these signs, it's time to call a professional in foundation repair. Damage to the foundation can result in uneven floors, misaligned walls and doors and windows that are stuck. It is crucial to take care of these issues as soon as you can to avoid costly and risky repairs in the future. If left unattended these issues can escalate to the point where your entire house is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's most renowned foundation repair specialists today to set up an inspection and repair!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can form when double glazing begins to degrade. This can be unsightly and allows all the heat that's stored within your home to escape. It also poses a safety threat to your family as the sharp glass pieces could cause injury in the event of a break. It is best to repair any double glazing windows that show cracks prior to it getting worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are essential to stop drafts from entering the home and to keep air between your window panes. However, over time these will deteriorate or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not taken care of, it could result in condensation, moisture, and draughts in your home.
A professional can usually solve this problem. They can replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original condition. They can also suggest features that can reduce the risk of stress cracks, for example trickle ventilation for better air circulation.
You can also try lubricating the hinges as well as handles on your windows and doors. This will help them move more easily and let the lock function as it should. Rub some lubricating oil on a lint free cloth and then rub them into the hinges, handle mechanism and places where they go through frames (for instance, a window with sash). You can also take off the handles and clean them with soapy water to get rid of any dirt or grit.
It is important to contact an expert when you find that your uPVC windows and doors aren't working as they should. They can pinpoint the issue quickly, and solve it in a short time. It's safer and less expensive than trying to fix it yourself and possibly damaging the mechanisms. You'll also be able to rest in peace of mind knowing your home is secure and secure.