Double Glazing Locks Repair

If a double-glazed window does not close, it creates drafts that allow heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.

Double glazed Window Doctor 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 may have.

Faulty locks

Many people put anti-burglar systems on their main doors and gates, but they often overlook that windows are the most frequent targets for burglars. Having faulty locks can lead to draughts in the home, allowing valuable heat to escape and weaken the security of your home.

If your uPVC windows locks don't work, it's likely that the mechanism of the lock is jammed. This usually occurs due to a split in the gearbox component. This could cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees but not open. This is a frequent issue with uPVC casement windows, but it can also be present in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.

In this situation, it is possible to release the lock by applying pressure to the lever handle. This will allow you to open the gear box and restore the window's opening. If this does nothing it is possible to replace the entire mechanism for locking windows.

Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are an internal locking system that secures the window by employing locking cams shaped like mushrooms that are inserted into the frame. The handle controls the gearbox which then activates the cams, causing them to move up or down. A common fault with these is when the spindle on the lock has been damaged, causing the handle to move freely but not allowing the window to move open or close.

A broken gearbox could cause your window to appear to be locked, but it is not. This could happen when the centre rods, also known as crocodile tooth fixings, in the gearbox are snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and replace the rods if this occurs.

It is crucial not to force the lock to break or get a stuck one. This could cause a lock to snap or break particularly if you have windows made of uPVC which expands and contracts with temperature changes. To avoid this problem, it is recommended to call a locksmith professional to determine the problem and fix it.

Sticky Doors/Window

It's annoying to find doors and windows that are stuck, but they may also indicate more serious structural problems. It is essential to seek professional help if you have difficulty opening or closing windows or doors. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons like foundation settlement or the lack of support in the crawl space.

Windows and doors can get stuck due to humidity or an issue with the frame itself. If your frames are made of wood, for instance, they may be prone to warping when exposed to humidity. This can make opening and closing them difficult even if the hardware is in good shape. If this happens, the wood swells and pushes against the hinges, causing friction.

If your window or door sticks in the summer and you are unable to get it to close, try using bar soap to lessen the friction. It will shrink and may temporarily solve the problem. This method will need to be repeated frequently during times of high humidity.

A more permanent fix involves sanding the window or door frame to give it a smooth finish. This can be done either by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also stain, sand and paint your door or window frame to make it appear fresh and new.

If soaping or sanding doesn't help, your problem may be caused by foundation settlement or a damaged crawlspace. Look for cracks in the area. If you see these indications, you need to contact a foundation repair specialist. Damage to the foundation can cause uneven floors, a misaligned wall and doors that are stuck. To avoid future costly and dangerous repairs, it's crucial to address these issues as soon as you can. These issues could escalate until your home becomes structurally unstable if left unattended. Contact the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists to schedule an inspection today!

Cracking/Blowing Issues

Cracks can develop when double glazing begins to degrade. This could be a disconcerting sight and also let all the heat from your home to escape. It could also pose dangerous for your family members, as the glass pieces that are sharp could cause injuries if they are shattered. It is best to fix double-glazing windows with a crack before they become worse. This will increase the cost of replacement.

Window seals are vital to keep air between the window panes and also for stopping drafts from entering your home. Over time, these seals will shrink or eventually become perished because of changes in weather. If not checked, it can cause condensation, moisture and draughts within your home.

This issue can usually be resolved by an expert. They can replace the seal on your window and bring your windows back to their original state. They can also suggest features that can reduce the risk of stress cracks, such as trickle ventilation to improve ventilation.

You can also grease the handles and hinges of your windows and door. This will allow them move more easily and let the lock work as intended. Rub some lubricating oils on a cloth that is free of lint and then rub them into hinges and handle mechanism as well as in areas where they pass through frames (for example for sash window). It may also be beneficial to remove handles from the frames and wash them by using warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit that has been stuck to them.

If your uPVC doors and windows aren't working in the way they should, it is important to call in an expert to fix them. They can identify the problem quickly, window doctor and then solve it in a short time. It's much less expensive and more secure than trying do it yourself and possibly harming the mechanism. You'll also be able to rest in peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure.