Double Glazing Locks Repair

When a double-glazed window will not shut, it creates drafts that allow heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at a greater risk of burglary.

Double-glazed window seals, hinges and handles may break down over time. If this is the situation it can impact the functionality of your windows and void any warranties you might have.

The locks are not working properly

Many people put anti-burglar devices on their main gates and doors, but they often overlook that windows are prime targets for burglars. Having faulty locks can lead to draughts in the house, allow valuable heat to escape and also weaken your home's security barriers.

If you find that your uPVC window locks aren't functioning, there is a good chance that the lock mechanism has become blocked. This usually occurs because of a crack in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle not to 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.

If this happens, unlock the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can be used to 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 that secure the window using locks that look like mushrooms and are in the frame keep. The handle is the trigger for the gearbox, which activates the cams for either up or down movement. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged and the handle is unable to turn freely but not allowing the window to move open or shut.

A faulty transmission can also make your window appear locked, but it is not. This could happen when the rods in the centre, also referred to as crocodile tooth fixings in the gearbox snap off. If this is the situation, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacements for these rods to restore the functionality of your window doctor.

It is essential not to force a stuck or broken lock. This can cause the lock to break or snap - especially with a uPVC window as it expands and contracts as it warms and cools. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who can diagnose the problem and repair it.

Sticky Doors/Window

It's a nuisance to have windows and doors that are stuck, but they may be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you are unable to open or close a window or door, it's important to seek help from a professional as soon as possible. These problems can be caused by a number of reasons like foundation settlement or a lack of support for the crawl space.

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

If your door or window gets stuck in the summer you can try rubbing it with bar soap to decrease the friction. It will shrink and could temporarily resolve the problem. This solution may need to be repeated frequently during periods of high moisture.

Sanding the frame of the door or window to create a smooth surface is a better and more lasting fix. This can be done by hand or using the power tool. A professional can also sand and paint or stain your door or frame to make it look new and fresh.

If sanding or soaping doesn't solve the problem, it could be due to foundation settlement or a damaged crawlspace. The first thing to do is look for cracks in the area. If you notice these signs, it's time to call in a foundation repair specialist. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors and misaligned interior walls and, in turn, stuck doors and windows. To avoid future expensive and dangerous repairs, it's essential to deal with these issues as soon as possible. These issues can get worse until your home becomes unstable and structurally unsound if not addressed. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists today to arrange an inspection and repair service!

Cracking/Blowing Issues

Cracks can appear when double glazing begins to break down. This can be ugly and it also 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 glass pieces can cause injury in the event of a break. It is best to repair any double-glazed windows that have cracks before they get worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing the windows.

Window seals are vital to keep air out between your window panes, and they also stop drafts from entering your home. As time passes, these seals may shrink or even be destroyed due to changes in weather. If unchecked, this can lead to humidity in the home condensation, draughts and condensation.

A professional is usually able to resolve this problem. They can repair the window seal in order to restore your windows back to their original state of repair. They may also suggest additional features that will reduce the chance of a stress fracture occurring in the future, like trickle vents for improved ventilation.

You can also try lubricating hinges and handles on your doors and windows. This will enable them move more easily and allow the lock to perform as it was intended. Rub some lubricating oils on a lint free cloth and then rub them into the hinges or handle mechanism, as well as places where they pass through frames (for instance, a sash window). 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 which has been stuck to them.

If your uPVC windows and doors are not functioning as they should, it's essential to contact a professional to fix them. They can identify the problem quickly and fix it within a short amount of time. It's much less expensive and safer than trying to do it yourself and potentially damaging the mechanisms. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is secure and safe.