Double Glazing Locks Repair

When a double glazing repair glazing window won't close it creates draughts and allows heat to escape. It also reduces your security measures for your home and puts you at risk of burglary.

Double glazed window seals, hinges and handles can break down over time. If this is the case, it can affect how your windows function and void any warranty you have.

Locks that aren't working

While many take great care when installing anti-burglar systems for their gates and main doors but they often forget that windows are among the top targets for burglars. Insecure locks can lead to draughts, let valuable heat escape, and reduce the security of your home.

If you notice that your uPVC window locks aren't working, there's an excellent chance that the mechanism for locking is stuck. This is usually caused by the gearbox breaking in one component. This could cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees, but not fully open. This issue is typical of uPVC windows, however it can also happen in tilt-and-turn windows as well as sliding sash windows.

When this happens it is possible to unlock the lock by applying pressure on the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and allow the window's opening. If this doesn't work, you may have to replace the entire window lock mechanism.

Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. They are an internal locking system that secures the window using locking cams that resemble mushrooms that are inserted into the frame. The handle operates the gearbox which then activates the cams, causing them to move up or down. The spindle of the lock may break, causing the handle not to move, but the window to close or open.

A broken gearbox could cause your window to appear to be locked, but isn't actually. This is usually the case when the centre rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) within the gearbox have broken off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacement rods to restore the operation of your window doctor.

It is crucial not to force a stuck or broken lock. This could cause the lock to snap or break, especially with a uPVC window that expands and expands as it warms and cools. 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 be a sign of more serious structural issues. If you're having difficulty to open or close a window or door it is important to seek out professional assistance whenever you can. The problem could be caused by a variety of reasons, including foundation settlement or the lack of support in the crawl space.

Frame problems or humidity can cause doors and windows to stick. If your frames are wood for instance, they could be prone to warping when exposed to moisture. This could make opening and closing them a challenge, even if the hardware is in good condition. When this happens the wood expands and presses against the hinges, creating friction.

Rub the door or window with soap to decrease friction if it gets stuck in the summer. This will make it smaller and may help temporarily solve the issue. This method will need to be repeated sporadically during periods of high humidity.

Sanding the frame of the door or window to create a smooth surface is a better and more lasting solution. This can be done by hand or using the power tool. A professional can also stain and sand or paint your window or door frame to get it looking like 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. Examine for cracks in your area. It's time for you to consult an expert in foundation when you spot any of these signs. Damage to the foundation can cause uneven floors, a misaligned wall and doors and windows that are stuck. It is crucial to tackle these issues as early as possible to avoid more expensive and dangerous repairs in the future. These issues can escalate until your home is structurally unstable if left unattended. Call the Southeast's most reputable foundation repair experts to schedule an inspection today!

Cracking/Blowing Issues

Cracks can develop when double glazing begins to break down. This could be a disconcerting sight, and can also allow the heat inside your home to escape. This can also pose an injury risk for double glazing your family members as the sharp glass pieces could cause injury if they break. It is recommended to repair any double glazing windows that show cracks before they get worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing them.

Window seals are essential to prevent drafts from entering your home and to keep air between the window panes. Over time, the seals will shrink or eventually get damaged because of changes in weather. If not checked, it can cause condensation, moisture and draughts within your home.

A professional can usually solve this issue. They can repair the window seal and restore your windows back to their original state of repair. They can also recommend additional features that can reduce the likelihood of a stress crack occurring in the future, like trickle vents for better ventilation.

You can also grease the handles and hinges on your windows and door. This will enable them to move more easily, double glazing and the lock to function as it should. Put some lubricating oils on a clean cloth and rub it into the handles and hinges, and also in the places that they pass through the frame (for example, sash windows). You can also remove the handles and clean them in warm soapy water to get rid of any dirt or dust.

It is important to contact a professional if you find that your uPVC windows and doors are not working as they should. They can identify the problem quickly and fix it within a short amount of time. It's much less expensive and more secure than trying do it yourself and potentially harming the mechanism. It will also give you peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure.