Double Glazing Locks Repair

When a double-glazed window won't close it creates drafts and window Doctor allows valuable heat to escape. It also reduces the security of your home and exposes you to burglary.

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

Locks with a problem

Many people put anti-burglar devices on their main doors and gates However, they tend to forget that windows are prime targets for burglars. Poorly secured locks can cause draughts, let valuable heat escape, and reduce the security of your house.

If you find that your uPVC windows locks don't function, it is most likely that the lock mechanism is jammed. This is usually because of a crack 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 can also be seen in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.

In this situation it is possible to release the lock by applying pressure on the lever handle. This can be used to unlock the gearbox and reopen the window's opening. If this method does not work, you may need to replace the window lock mechanism completely.

Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window doctor which secure the window by using locks that look like mushrooms and are that are inserted into the frame keep. The handle is the one that operates the gearbox which then activates the cams to either move upwards or downwards. The spindle of the lock may break and cause the handle to move but the door to open or close.

A faulty transmission can also make your window appear locked, but it is not. This could happen when the centre rods, also known as crocodile tooth fixings, in the gearbox are snapped off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and install replacement rods in order to restore the function of your window.

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

Sticky Doors/Window

It is annoying to find doors and windows that stick and sag, but they can also indicate more serious structural problems. It is important to seek professional assistance if you're having difficulty closing or opening windows or doors. This could be the result of various factors, including foundation settlement and impaired crawl space support.

Doors and windows often get stuck due to humidity or a problem with the frame itself. If your frames are made of wood for instance, they could be prone to warping when exposed to humidity. Even if your hardware appears nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood expands as it expands and pushes against the hinges, causing friction.

If your door or window is sagging in summer you can try rubbing it with bar soap to reduce the friction. This will shrink it and may help temporarily solve the problem. This solution may need to be repeated periodically during periods of high moisture.

Sanding the frame of the door or window to a smooth finish is a more permanent fix. This can be done by hand or using a power tool. A professional can also stain and sand or paint your window or door frame to get it looking like new.

If soaping or sanding don't aid, the issue could be caused by foundation settlement or a weak crawlspace. Look for cracks in the area. It's time to call an expert in foundations when you spot any of these signs. Foundation damage can result in uneven floors, walls that are not aligned and stuck windows and doors. To avoid the need for costly and risky repairs, it's essential to address these issues as soon as you can. These issues can escalate until your home becomes unsafe to live in if it is not taken care of. Contact the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection today!

Cracking/Blowing Issues

When double glazing starts to deteriorate, it may cause cracks to form. This can be unsightly and it also allows all the heat that has been stored in your home to escape. It could also pose dangerous for your family members, as the glass pieces that are sharp could injure them if they are shattered. It is best to repair any double glazing windows that show a crack before it gets worse, as this will increase the cost of replacing them.

Window seals are essential to keep air between your window panes and also for stopping drafts from entering your home. However, over time, they may become damaged or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. Unchecked, it can result in condensation, moisture and window Doctor draughts within your home.

This issue is usually solved by a professional. They can replace the window seal in order to restore your windows back to their original condition. They will also suggest other features that will reduce the likelihood of a stress crack forming in the future, such as trickle vents for improved ventilation.

You can also lubricate the hinges and handles of your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more smoothly and will allow the lock to perform as it was intended. Put some lubricating oil on a clean cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism and also in the places where they go through the frame (for example, windows with sash). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from their frames and wash them with warm water to rid them of any dirt or grit which has been stuck to them.

If your uPVC doors and windows aren't working in the way they should, it's important to call in a professional to repair them. They can identify the problem quickly and repair it in a brief time. It's much safer and cheaper than attempting to fix the issue yourself and potentially damaging the mechanism. It will also give you peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure.