Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window won't close it causes draughts and allows heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at a higher risk of burglary.
Double-glazed window seals, hinges, and handles may break down over time. If this happens, it could affect how your windows function and void any warranty you may have.
Locks that aren't working
While many take great care in installing anti-burglar security systems for their gates and doors, it is often overlooked that windows are the most popular targets for burglars. double glazing repair near me can lead to draughts in the home, allowing valuable heat to escape and also weaken your home's security.
If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not working, there's an excellent chance that the lock mechanism is stuck. This is usually caused by the gearbox breaking in one component. This could cause the handle to turn 360 degrees, but not open. 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, you can unlock the lock by pressing the lever handle. This will unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this method does not work, you may need to replace the window lock mechanism completely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are an internal locking system that secures the window by using locking cams that resemble mushrooms which are inserted into frame keeps. The handle is the one that operates the gearbox which then activates the cams to either move up or down. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock has been damaged, causing the handle to rotate freely, but not to move the window open or shut.
A damaged transmission could cause your window to appear locked but it's not. This is because the rods that are the center, also known as crocodile tooth fixings, in the gearbox are snapped off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacement rods to restore the operation of your window.
It is crucial not to force a stuck or broken lock. This can cause the lock to snap or break particularly if you have windows made of uPVC that expand and contracts when temperatures change. To avoid this issue, you should call a locksmith professional to determine the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Sticking doors and windows are an extremely annoying problem, but they can also be a sign of more serious structural problems. It's important to get assistance from a professional if you are having difficulty opening or closing windows or doors. The issue could be the result of many things that include foundation settlement as well as impaired crawl space support.
Humidity or frame problems can cause windows and doors to stick. If your frames are made of wood, for instance, they can become brittle when exposed to moisture. This could make opening and closing them a challenge even if the hardware in good condition. The wood swells when this happens and is pushed up against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the window or door with soap to decrease friction if it sticks in the summer. This will make it smaller and could temporarily resolve the problem. This method may need to be repeated frequently during periods of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the window or door to create a smooth surface is a more permanent fix. It can be done by hand or using an electric tool. A professional can also sand down and stain or paint your window or door frame to make it look fresh and new.
If sanding or soaping doesn't help, your problem may be caused by foundation settlement or a compromised crawlspace. Examine for cracks in your area. If you spot these indications, you need to call a foundation repair specialist. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors, a misaligned wall and stuck windows and doors. It's important to tackle these issues as early as possible to avoid more expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. If left unattended, these issues could escalate to the point where your entire home is structurally unstable. Call the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing begins to wear down, it could cause cracks to appear. This can be unsightly and it also allows all the heat that's built up within your home to escape. This could also pose a safety threat to your family, as the sharp glass pieces could cause injuries in the event of a break. It is recommended to repair any double glazing windows that show cracks prior to it getting worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing them.
Window seals are vital to prevent drafts from entering your home and to keep air between your window panes. Over time, these seals will shrink or eventually become perished due to changes in the weather. If not checked, it can lead to moisture, condensation and draughts inside your home.
This issue can usually be resolved by an expert. They can replace the window seal in order to restore your windows to their original condition. They may also suggest additional features that will reduce the possibility of a stress crack occurring in the future, like trickle vents for better ventilation.
It is also possible to lubricate the hinges and handles of your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily and the lock to function as intended. Rub some lubricating oil on a cloth that is free of lint and rub them into the hinges, handle mechanism and places where they go through frames (for example for sash window). You can also take off the handles and wash them with soapy water to wash away any dirt or dust.
If your uPVC windows and doors aren't working in the way they should, it is essential to contact an expert to fix them. They will be able to determine the issue quickly and fix it in a short space of time. It's a lot safer and more affordable than attempting to fix the issue yourself and could cause damage to the mechanism. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure.