Double Glazing Locks Repair
When a double-glazed window won't close it causes draughts and allows valuable heat to escape. This can also compromise the security of your home and puts you at a higher risk of burglary.
Over time, double glazed window hinges handles, seals and handles can become damaged. If this is the situation, it can affect your windows' functionality and cancel any warranties you may have.
Faulty Locks
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main gates and doors However, they tend to overlook that windows are the most frequent targets for burglars. Faulty locks can cause draughts, let valuable heat escape, and reduce the security of your home.
If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't functioning, there is a good chance that the lock mechanism is jammed. This usually happens due to an issue with a gearbox component. This could cause the handle to not open, but instead to rotate 360 degrees. This is a frequent issue with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be seen in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, unlock the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and allow the opening of the window. If this doesn't work, you may have to replace the entire mechanism for locking windows.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are a locking system inside the window that secures the window by utilising mushroom-like locking cams that are built into the frame. The handle is the trigger for the gearbox, which triggers the cams to allow either up or down movement. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock has been damaged and the handle is unable to rotate freely, but not to move the window open or close.
A broken gearbox could cause your window to appear to be locked but not actually be. This is because the centre rods, also known as crocodile tooth fixings, in the gearbox snap off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacements for these rods to restore the functionality of your window.
It is important to not try to force a stuck or broken lock. This can cause the lock to snap or break - especially with a uPVC window that expands and shrinks as it warms up and cools. To avoid this issue, you should contact a professional locksmith to identify the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is a serious annoyance but they can also indicate more significant structural problems. If you find it difficult to open or close a window or door it is crucial to seek professional help whenever you can. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons like foundation settlement or an absence of support in the crawl space.
Doors and windows often get stuck due to humidity or an issue with the frame itself. If your frames are made of wood for instance, they could become brittle when exposed to humidity. Even if your hardware appears nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood swells as it expands and is pushed up against the hinges creating friction.
If your window or door sticks in the summer you can try rubbing it with bar soap to decrease the friction. This will help it shrink and could solve the issue temporarily. This procedure will have to be repeated frequently during periods of high humidity.
A more permanent solution involves making the door or window frame to create an even finish. It can be done by hand or using a power tool. A professional can also stain, sand and paint your window or door frame to make it look fresh and new.
If the sanding and soap don't help, it's likely that the issue is due to foundation settlement or a damaged crawl space. The first thing you should do is look for cracks in the area. It's time to contact a foundation specialist If you notice any of these signs. Damage to the foundation can result in uneven floors, a misaligned wall and doors that are stuck. It is crucial to address these issues as early as possible to avoid more expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. These issues could escalate until your home becomes unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Call Stockport double glazing repairs in foundation repair to schedule an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing starts to degrade, it can cause cracks to develop. This can be ugly and allows all the heat that's build up within your home to escape. It also poses a safety threat to your family as the sharp glass pieces could cause injury if they break. It is recommended to repair any double-glazing windows with a crack before they get any worse. This will increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are crucial to stop drafts from entering the home and keep air between the window panes. However, over time these may become damaged or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not taken care of, this can lead to condensation in the home, condensation and draughts.
A professional will usually be able to solve this issue. They can replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original state. They will also suggest features that can reduce the risk of stress cracks, like trickle ventilation for better air circulation.
You can also lubricate the handles and hinges on your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily, and the lock to function as intended. Rub some lubricating oils on a cloth that is free of lint and then rub them into hinges, handle mechanism and places where they pass through frames (for instance, a window with sash). You can also take off the handles and clean them in warm soapy water to get rid of any dirt or grit.
If your uPVC doors and windows aren't functioning in the way they should, it's crucial to contact a professional to fix them. They will be able to determine the issue quickly and resolve the issue in a short space of time. It is a lot cheaper and safer than trying to fix it yourself and risk harming the mechanism. It will also give you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.