When a double-glazed window will not close, it causes draughts that allow valuable heat to escape. This also weakens the security of your home and puts you at a higher risk of burglary.
Double-glazed window seals, hinges and handles may break down over time. If this is the case it could affect the performance of your windows and cancel any warranties you might have.
The locks are not working properly
While many take great care when installing anti-burglar devices for their gates and doors but they often forget that the windows are prime targets for burglars. A poor lock can cause drafts inside the home, which can allow valuable heat to escape and weaken your home's security barriers.
If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not working, there's a good chance that the lock mechanism has become blocked. This is typically caused by an issue with a gearbox component. This can cause the handle not to open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a frequent issue with uPVC casement windows, but is also found in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you can release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This will allow you to open 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. These are an internal locking system that secures the window by employing locking cams shaped like mushrooms that are built into the frame. The handle turns on the gearbox, which triggers the cams for either upward or down movement. A common issue is when the spindle on the lock is damaged which causes the handle to rotate 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 if the rods in the centre (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) within the gearbox have 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 can cause the lock to snap or break - especially with a uPVC window as it expands and expands as it warms and cools. It is best to contact a professional locksmith to diagnose the problem and repair it.
Sticky Doors/Window
Sticking doors and windows are a serious annoyance, but they can be a sign of more serious structural issues. It is important to seek assistance from a professional if you are having difficulty closing or opening the door or window. The issue could be the result of many things, including foundation settlement and impaired crawl space support.
Frame or humidity issues could cause windows and doors to become stuck. When exposed to moisture, wood frames can begin to warp. Even if your hardware appears nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood swells as it expands and is pushed up against the hinges creating friction.
If your door or window sticks in the summer, try rubbing it with bar soap to reduce the friction. This will shrink it and could temporarily resolve the problem. This solution may need to be repeated frequently during periods of high humidity.
A more permanent fix involves making the door or window frame to give it a smooth finish. This can be done by hand or with the power tool. A professional can also stain, sand and paint your door or window frame to get it looking new again.
If soaping or sanding doesn' double glazing repairs , your problem may be due to foundation settlement or a weak crawlspace. Look for cracks in the area. It's time to call an expert in foundations if you see any of these signs. Damage to the foundation can cause uneven floors, a misaligned wall and stuck windows and doors. To avoid the need for expensive and dangerous repairs, it's essential to deal with these issues as soon as you can. If not addressed these issues can escalate to the point that your entire home is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's most reputable foundation repair experts to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can appear when double glazing begins to break down. It can be unappealing and also allow all the heat that's built up in your home to escape. This could also pose danger to your family as the sharp glass pieces could cause injuries in the event of a break. It is best to repair any double-glazed windows that have cracks prior to it getting worse, since this could increase the cost of replacing the windows.
Window seals are vital to stop drafts from entering the home and to keep air between the window panes. As time passes, these seals will shrink or eventually be destroyed because of changes in weather. If left unchecked, this can lead to moisture in the home as well as condensation and draughts.
This issue can usually be solved by an expert. They will be able to replace the window seal and get your windows back to their original state. They will also suggest features that can reduce the risk of stress cracks, for example trickle ventilation for better ventilation.
It is also possible to try lubricating the hinges and handles on your windows and doors. This will enable them to move more smoothly and allow the lock to work as intended. Put some lubricating oils on a clean cloth and rub it into the hinges and handle mechanism, as well as places where they go through the frame (for instance, windows with sash). You can also remove the handles and clean them in warm soapy water to get rid of any dirt or dirt.
If your uPVC windows and doors aren't working in the way they should, it's essential to contact a professional to fix them. They will be able to identify the issue quickly, and then solve it in a short time. It's much less expensive and more secure than trying do it yourself and potentially harming the mechanism. You will also have peace of mind knowing your home is secure and safe.
