Double Glazing Locks Repair When a double-glazed window isn't closed, it causes draughts and allows 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 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 that aren't working While many people take great care when installing anti-burglar devices for their gates and main doors, it is often overlooked that the windows are prime targets for burglars. A poor lock can lead to draughts in the house, allow valuable heat to escape and also weaken the security of your home. If you notice that your uPVC window locks aren't functioning, there is an excellent chance that the lock mechanism has become stuck. 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 issue is common to uPVC windows, however it is also a problem in tilt-and-turn windows and sliding sash windows. When this happens, it is possible to unlock the lock by applying pressure on the lever handle. This will unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this does nothing then you might need to replace the entire mechanism of the window lock. Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window which secure the window by using the shape of a mushroom and locking cams that are in the frame keep. The handle turns on the gearbox, which activates the cams to allow either up or down movement. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock is damaged, causing the handle to turn freely but not move the window open or shut. A malfunctioning transmission may make your window appear to be locked however it's not. This could happen if the rods in the centre (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have been snapped off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacements for these rods to restore the functionality of your window. It is not advisable to force the lock to break or get a stuck one. This can cause a lock to break or snap, especially if you have a uPVC windows that expands and contracts when temperatures change. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who will identify the issue and fix it. Sticky Doors/Window Windows and doors that stick are an extremely annoying problem, but they can also be a sign of more serious structural issues. It is important to seek professional help if you have difficulty closing or opening a door or window. This could be a result of a variety of things, including foundation settlement and impaired crawl space support. Windows and doors can stick because of humidity or a problem with the frame itself. If your frames are wood for instance, they could become brittle when exposed to humidity. This can make opening and closing them a challenge, even if the hardware is in good condition. In this case the wood expands and presses against the hinges, creating friction. If your window or door is sagging in summer, try rubbing it with bar soap to reduce the friction. This will allow it to shrink and can resolve the issue temporarily. This method may need to be repeated frequently during periods of high moisture. A more permanent fix involves sanding the door or window frame to give it an even finish. It can be done either by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also sand down and stain or paint your window or door frame to make it look like new. If sanding and soap aren't helping it's likely that your issue is caused by foundation settlement or a compromised crawl space. The first thing you should do is look for cracks around the affected area. If you spot these signs, it's time to call a professional in foundation repair. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors, a misaligned wall and stuck windows and doors. It is crucial to take care of these issues as soon as possible to avoid more expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. If left unattended the issues could get worse to the point where your entire home is structurally unstable. Call the Southeast's most reputable foundation repair experts to schedule an inspection today! Cracking/Blowing Issues When double glazing begins to wear down, it could cause cracks to appear. This can be a snazzy sight and also allow the heat inside your home to escape. It can also be a safety risk for your family, since the sharp pieces of glass could cause injuries if they are shattered. It is better to fix double-glazing windows with cracks before they get any worse. double glazing repairs will increase the cost of replacement. Window seals are essential to prevent drafts from entering your home and to keep air between the window panes. As time passes, these seals will shrink or eventually get damaged due to changes in the weather. If not taken care of, this can lead to condensation in the home as well as condensation and draughts. This issue is usually resolved by a professional. They will be able to replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original condition. They will also suggest features that will reduce future stress cracks, like trickle ventilation to improve ventilation. It is also possible to lubricate the handles and hinges of your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily and allow the lock to function as intended. Put some lubricating oils on a cloth that is free of lint and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism as well as the areas where they pass through the frame (for example, for sash windows). It can also be helpful to remove handles from their frames and clean them by using warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit that may have become stuck to them. It is important to contact a professional if your uPVC doors and windows are not working as they should. They will be able to identify the issue quickly, and then repair it in a brief time. It's safer and less expensive than attempting to fix the issue yourself and potentially damaging the mechanism. You'll also be able to rest in peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.
double glazing repairs