Having quality locks on your windows and doors helps to prevent burglars from accessing your home. In general, they don't enjoy breaking glass or trying to wiggle through windows that are open.
Some owners of double glazing, however, have encountered issues with their door or window lock following the installation. These issues can be solved without the need for a new double glazing.
Broken or faulty locks
If your uPVC door or window lock is damaged or broken or has a problem, a locksmith will repair it for you. They will be able to fix the hinges, striker plates and locks on your double glazing. They will also be able to move the cylinder around to fix any misalignment issues that may be causing the handle to not function properly.
The mechanism could be seized when the key fits into the lock, but it does not turn or become difficult for you to insert. The dirt or grease could be trapped in the mechanism. If this is the case, it might be possible to clean the lock and then lubricate it. Use a dry lubricant like graphite or Teflon but not oil as oil can attract dirt and cause it to stick to the inside of the mechanism. After you have lubricated the lock, you should insert the key and attempt to turn it. The lubricant needs to be absorbed into the mechanism and the lock should be able to turn easily.
Loose screws within the lock mechanism are a different cause of a faulty lock. They may loosen and break off or fall out completely which can stop the lock from working correctly. A screwdriver can be used to tighten the screws but care must be taken not to tighten them too much since this could cause damage to the internal components.
A broken lock can be hazardous for your family and you. This is especially the case if you have children. It is possible for them to open the door without your knowledge, and this can give them access to your home. If you are worried about this happening, then a licensed locksmith can offer a quick and efficient service to secure your double glazing doors.
Misty Glaze are a professional uPVC and double glazing company based in Lancing and can repair any type of defective and broken mechanisms, handles, cylinders and lock systems for both uPVC windows and doors. We can also modify the locking system on your uPVC windows or double glazing to meet your requirements. This means that replacement windows and doors are not always required.
Handles that are broken or damaged
A lot of double-glazed windows come with a multi-point lock as part of the overall security package. This is a great choice for those who are concerned about opportunistic burglars trying to gain entry to their home. It's also worth asking your installer about anti-lift locks that can be installed in addition to the locks that are already in place to ensure that your window is locked in a closed position.
Handle locks are usually damaged or fail. They are the first thing criminals will employ to open your window. The good news is, this is among the easiest parts to repair.
Modern handles made of aluminium and uPVC operate a multi-point locking system known as Espagnolette that is designed to resist forced entry. This upgrade to security is typically offered as an optional extra on new uPVC window installation. Older style uPVC and aluminum handles can be upgraded to shoot bolt locking systems and again as an additional feature on all new double-glazed windows.
It is important to repair handles as quickly as possible after it has been damaged. The damaged handles could stop the window from closing properly and permit a draft to enter. It could also be a weak point that burglars who are opportunistic could exploit, putting your family and belongings at risk of theft.
To fix the malfunctioning mechanism, you must first access the window frame and remove the broken handle. The gearbox can then be accessed to determine the kind of gearbox used to open the handle. This will permit to replace the handle that matches the profile and the internal window frame mechanisms.
After the mechanism has been repaired, the handle may be returned to the original screws. However, we suggest replacing them with more long screws to ensure a more secure fit. The final step is to apply a coat of clear sealant to shield the handle from further corrosion. Once you've completed this step your window will be functional again, and at a fraction the cost of replacing it.
Hinges that are broken or faulty
If your windows don't close properly, draughts can be able to enter, your home's security barriers will weaken, and there is the risk of water damage or damp. Broken or faulty window hinges are a typical issue and can be repaired easily.
If your uPVC windows don't open or shut and close, it's likely the hinges require to be replaced or repaired. Most window companies will require that you purchase an entirely new window unit to fix this simple problem, but we can replace the hinges in order to save you money.
Window hinges can be damaged through repeated use, or weakened over time by corrosion. In the event of a broken hinge, it is important to take measures to prevent further damage by taking care not to make the window swing to close or open.
Knowing the type of hinge you have will help you find the correct parts to fix it. Maco, Mila and Roto are all brands of window hinges. It's best to consult an expert in this situation so that you don't make the mistake of purchasing parts that aren't compatible with your existing hardware and cause further damage.
A damaged hinge can be a major issue for your uPVC window and doors. They can be a significant source of noise and can also allow for water infiltration which could damage your windows.
Make sure whether the pin barrels on both sides of the hinge are aligned. If it isn't, tap the head pin with an hammer to create a shallow bend in the hinge barrel. This will help keep the pin in place. Ask a friend to hold the doors while you take out hinge screws and hinges. Replace the hinges and attach screws with glue. After the glue is drying, secure the hinges by using clamps or weights.
Once you have repaired the hinges, you can reinstall the door. You can also attach the handle. Replace the screws with wood dowels of the same size as the original screw to ensure that they match.
Glass that is damaged or Faulty
While uPVC windows do a great job of keeping cold out and the heat in, they are susceptible to becoming damaged over time. This could include damaged or broken glass and damaged locks. This issue could be extremely costly should it be not addressed. It can also hurt the appearance of your home and can lead to a loss in insulation. It is essential to repair any damage promptly.
If your glass is broken but isn't shattered, you can usually fix it yourself using the right tools and techniques. First, ensure that the surrounding area around the glass is clear so that any shards won't harm anyone and aren't an accident-prone area. Then, you must remove any broken pieces and dispose of them properly. Apply masking tape across the entire area. This will prevent glass shards from sticking to your skin and splintering when you move them. If you're dealing with a double-pane window, it's a good idea to pre-fit the pane of glass before gluing it back into place so that you are sure you'll have enough room to complete the task.
Before applying the glue, wipe the entire surface of the broken frame and the glass with a dry, clean cloth. Follow the instructions for application and curing times which may differ from one product to the next. Based on the angle of the crack, you may want to clamp the glass in place during curing. This can be done using lightweight clamps that are designed to hold fragile materials.
Once the adhesive has fully cure, carefully insert the glass into the window frame. Make sure it is in line with the frame edge and that there aren't gaps between the glass sash and frame. Be cautious not to flex the window when it's being installed, as this could weaken the seal and cause condensation and water infiltration.
Contact double glazing near me like O'Brien(r) to arrange an exchange if your glass window is completely shattered. It's important to act quickly in the event of broken glass.
