Double Glazing Locks Repair

If a double-glazed window won't close it creates draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at greater chance of being burglarized.

Double-glazed window seals, hinges and handles can become damaged over time. If this is the situation it could affect your windows' functionality and cancel any warranties you may have.

Faulty locks

While a lot of people take great care in installing anti-burglar devices for their gates and main doors but they often forget that the windows are prime targets for burglars. Incorrect locks could cause drafts to enter the home, allowing valuable heat to escape and also weaken your home's security barriers.

If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not functioning, there is a good chance that the lock mechanism is stuck. This is usually due to a split in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees, but not fully open. This is a common issue with upvc repairs near me casement windows, but can also be found in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.

When this happens it is possible to unlock the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This will unblock the gearbox and then restore the window's opening. If this does not work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.

Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are an internal locking system that secures the window using locking cams that resemble mushrooms which are inserted into frame. The handle is the one that operates the gearbox that then triggers the cams, causing them to move upwards or downwards. The most frequent issue is when the spindle on the lock has been damaged, causing the handle to move freely but not move the window open or close.

A damaged transmission could make your window appear locked, but it is not. This can happen when the central rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) within the gearbox have snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods if this occurs.

It is not advisable to force the lock to break or get stuck one. This can cause the lock to break or snap, especially if you have windows made of uPVC which expands and contracts as temperatures change. To prevent this from happening, it is best to seek out a professional locksmith to determine the problem and fix it.

Sticky Doors/Window

Sticking doors and windows are an extremely annoying problem, but they can also be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you're having difficulty to open or close a window or door, it's important to seek professional help whenever you can. These issues can result from many things such as foundation settlement and inadequate support for crawl spaces.

Doors and windows often stick because of humidity or an issue with the frame itself. When exposed to moisture, wood frames can begin to warp. Even if the hardware looks nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood swells when this happens and pushes against the hinges creating friction.

Rub the window or door with soap to decrease friction, especially if it is stuck in summer. This will make it smaller and could temporarily resolve the problem. This solution may need to be repeated regularly during periods of high humidity.

Sanding the frame of the window or door to a smooth finish is a better and more lasting fix. 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 look new again.

If sanding or soaping doesn't help, your problem may be caused by foundation settlement or a compromised crawlspace. Look for cracks in the area. It's time to call a foundation specialist if you see any of these indications. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors, misaligned walls and doors that are stuck. To avoid the need for costly and risky repairs, it's essential to deal with these issues as soon as you can. These issues can escalate until your home is unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Contact the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection now!

Cracking/Blowing Issues

Cracks can appear when double glazing begins to break down. This could be a disconcerting sight and also allow all the heat in your home to escape. This can also pose an injury risk to your family, as the glass pieces can cause injuries if they break. It is recommended to repair any double glazing windows that show a crack before it gets worse, as this will increase the cost of replacing them.

Window seals are vital to prevent drafts from entering your home and keep air between the window panes. Over time, the seals may shrink or even get damaged due to changes in weather. If not taken care of this could lead to humidity in the home as well as condensation and draughts.

This issue can usually be resolved by a professional. They can replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original condition. They can also recommend features that will reduce future stress cracks, such as trickle ventilation for better air circulation.

You could also try lubricating the hinges as well as handles on your windows and doors. This will allow them move more easily and will allow the lock to function as it should. Apply lubricating oil to a clean cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism as well as places where they pass through the frame (for example, for sash windows). You can also remove the handles and clean them with warm soapy water to remove any dirt or dust.

It is essential to speak with an expert if you find that your uPVC windows and doors aren't functioning 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 trying to fix it yourself and potentially damaging the mechanism. You will also have peace of mind knowing your home is secure and secure.