double glazing window repairs
When a double-glazed window will not shut, it creates drafts that allow valuable heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at a greater risk of burglary.
Over time, double glazed window hinges, handles and seals can become damaged. If this is the case it could affect how your windows work and could invalidate any warranty you 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. Incorrect locks can lead to draughts in the home, allowing valuable heat to escape, and weaken your home's security barriers.
If your uPVC windows locks don't work, it is likely that the lock mechanism is jammed. This usually happens due to the gearbox breaking in one component. This could cause the handle not to open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a problem that is typical of uPVC windows, however it can also occur in tilt-and turn windows and sliding sash window.
If this happens, you'll be able to release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can be used to unlock the gearbox and reopen the window's opening. If this doesn't work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism completely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are an internal locking system that secures the window by employing locking cams shaped like mushrooms which are inserted into frame. The handle activates the gearbox, which then activates the cams to allow either up or down movement. The spindle of the lock can break, causing the handle not to move but the door to open or close.
A faulty gearbox can also cause your window to appear to be locked, but isn't actually. This is usually the case when the central rods (sometimes known as crocodile teeth fixings) in the gearbox have been snapped off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and fit replacement rods to restore the functionality of your window.
It is important to not force a stuck or broken lock. This can cause a lock to break or snap particularly if you have windows made of uPVC that expand and contracts with temperature changes. To avoid this, it is best to call a locksmith professional to diagnose the issue and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's annoying to have windows and doors that don't close and sag, but they can also indicate more serious structural problems. It is essential to seek professional assistance if you're having difficulties closing or opening windows or doors. The problem could result from a variety of factors, including foundation settlement or the lack of support in the crawl space.
Humidity or frame problems could cause windows and doors to become stuck. When exposed to moisture, wooden frames can begin to warp. This can make opening and closing them a challenge even if the hardware is in good shape. The wood swells when this happens and is pushed up against the hinges, creating friction.
Rub the door or window with soap to lessen friction if it gets stuck in summer. This will shrink it and may help temporarily solve the problem. This solution may need to be repeated periodically during periods of high moisture.
A more permanent solution is sanding the window or door frame down to a smooth finish. This can be done by hand or with an electric tool. A professional can also sand down and stain or paint your door or window frame to make it appear like new.
If sanding and soap aren't helping it's likely the issue is due to foundation settlement or a compromised crawl space. Check for cracks in the area. It's time for you to consult an expert in foundation if you see any of these signs. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors, misaligned walls and doors and windows that are stuck. It is crucial to take care of these issues as soon as you can to avoid costly and dangerous repairs in the future. If left unattended, these issues could escalate to the point that your entire home is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to schedule an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can appear when double glazing starts to degrade. This can be an unsightly sight, and can also allow the heat inside your home to escape. It also poses an hazard for your family members, as the glass pieces that are sharp can cause injury when they break. It is recommended to fix double-glazing windows with a crack before they get any worse. This can increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are essential to stop drafts from entering your home and keep air between your window panes. However, as time passes, these will deteriorate or shrink due to weather changes. If not taken care of it can cause condensation in the home as well as condensation and draughts.
A professional is usually able to resolve this issue. They can replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original condition. They can also recommend additional features that can reduce the possibility of a stress fracture occurring in the future, for example trickle vents for improved ventilation.
You could also try lubricating the hinges and handles on your doors and windows. This will allow them to move more easily, and the lock to function as it should. Put some lubricating oils on a lint-free cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism, as well as places where they pass through the frame (for example, windows with sash). You can also take off the handles and clean them with soapy water to wash away any dirt or grit.
It is crucial to contact an expert if you find that your uPVC doors and windows are not working as they should. They can identify the problem quickly, and solve it in a short time. It's much less expensive and more secure than trying to fix it yourself and risk harming the mechanism. You'll also have peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.