Undeniable Proof That You Need Double Glazing Locks Repair
Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window will not close, it creates drafts that allow valuable heat to escape. It also reduces the security of your home and puts you at risk of burglary.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges, handles and seals can become damaged. If this is the case it could affect the performance of your windows and invalidate any warranties you may have.
Locks with a problem
Many people put anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates however, they forget that windows are also the most frequent targets for burglars. Having faulty locks can lead to draughts in the home, which can allow valuable heat to escape, and weaken your home's security.
If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not functioning, there is a good chance that the lock mechanism has become blocked. This usually occurs due to a slit in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to not open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This issue is common to uPVC windows, however it can also occur in tilt-and-turn windows and sliding sash windows.
In this situation it is possible to release the lock by applying pressure on the lever handle. This will allow you to open the gear box and restore the opening of the window. If this does not work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism completely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are an internal locking system that secures the window by employing locking cams shaped like mushrooms that are built into the frame keeps. The handle turns on the gearbox, which triggers the cams for either upward or down movement. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock has been damaged and the handle is unable to turn freely but not to move the window open or shut.
A broken gearbox could cause your window to appear locked, but it is not. This is usually the case when the central rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) within the gearbox have snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and replace the rods if this occurs.
It is crucial not to try to force a stuck or broken lock. This could cause a lock to snap or break, especially if you have windows made of uPVC which expands and contracts when temperatures change. It is best to contact an expert locksmith who will diagnose the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Sticking doors and windows are an extremely annoying problem, but they can also indicate more serious structural problems. If you're having difficulty to open or close a window or door it is important to seek out professional assistance immediately. These issues can be a result of various factors such as foundation settlement and inadequate support for crawl spaces.
Humidity or frame problems could cause windows and doors to become stuck. If your frames are made of wood for instance, they may be prone to warping when exposed to moisture. Even if look at this now appears great, this could make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood swells when this happens, and it is pushed up against the hinges creating friction.
Rub the window or door with soap to decrease friction if it sticks in summer. This will allow it to shrink and may resolve the problem temporarily. This procedure will have to be repeated sporadically during times of high humidity.
A more permanent solution involves sanding the door or window frame down to a smooth finish. This can be done by hand or using the power tool. A professional can also stain, sand and paint your window or door frame to make it appear like new.
If soaping or sanding don't aid, the issue could be due to foundation settlement or a damaged crawlspace. The first thing to look for cracks in the affected area. It's time to call a foundation specialist if you see any of these indications. Foundation damage can lead to uneven floors and a misaligned interior wall and, in turn, sticking doors and windows. It's important to tackle these issues as early as you can to avoid expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. These issues can get worse until your home becomes unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists to set up an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing begins to degrade, it can cause cracks to develop. This can be ugly and allows all the heat that has been built up within your home to escape. This can also pose a safety threat to your family, as the sharp glass pieces could cause injury if they break. It is best to repair any double-glazed windows that have cracks before they get worse, as this will increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are vital to keep air between your window panes and they also stop drafts from entering your home. However, as time passes, these may become damaged or shrink due to weather changes. If not checked, it can lead to moisture, condensation, and draughts in your home.
A professional is usually able to resolve this issue. They can repair the window seal and restore your windows to their original state of repair. They can also recommend additional features that will reduce the possibility of a stress crack occurring in the future, like trickle vents to improve ventilation.
It is also possible to lubricate the hinges and handles of your windows and door. This will allow them to move more easily, and the lock to function as it should. Apply lubricating oil to a clean cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism and also in the places where they pass through the frame (for example, windows with sash). You can also take off the handles and wash them with soapy water to remove any dirt or dust.
If your uPVC doors and windows are not functioning as they should, it is crucial to contact an expert to fix them. They can find the issue quickly and resolve the issue within a short amount of time. It is a lot cheaper and more secure than trying fix it yourself and risk harming the mechanism. It will also give you peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure.