A good quality lock on your doors and windows will stop burglars from accessing your home. They don't usually like to break glass or attempt to get through windows that are open.
However, some double glazing owners have experienced issues with their door lock or window lock after it's been installed. Luckily, these problems are often fixable without having to purchase new double glazing.
Broken or damaged locks
A locksmith can repair your uPVC window lock or door lock if it is broken or faulty. They can fix the striker plates, hinges, and locks on your double glazing. They can also reposition the cylinder to fix any misalignment issues that may be causing your handle to not work properly.
The mechanism could be seized when the key fits into the lock, but it does not turn or become difficult to insert. The dirt or grease could get stuck in the mechanism. If this is the situation, it may be possible for the lock to be cleaned and lubricated. Make use of a dry lubricant, such as 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 need to insert the key and then try to turn it. The lubricant will work through the mechanism, and the lock should be able to rotate without difficulty.
A faulty lock can also be caused by loose screws in the mechanism of the lock. They can become loose and fall out or break off completely which can stop the lock from functioning properly. A screwdriver is a tool to tighten the screws but caution must be taken not to tighten them too much, as this can damage the internal components.
A damaged lock can be dangerous for your family and you. This is particularly true if you have small children. They can open the door without knowing which gives them access to your home. If you're worried that this could occur, a licensed professional locksmith can help you secure the double-glazed doors.
Misty Glaze is a professional uPVC company in Lancing that repairs all types of damaged and damaged mechanisms on uPVC doors and windows. We can also reconfigure your uPVC or double glazing locking system to meet your particular needs, which means that in many cases replacement windows and doors are not necessary.
Handles that are broken or damaged
A lot of double-glazed windows come with a multi-point lock as a part of the overall security package. This is an excellent option for those who are concerned about opportunistic thieves looking for ways to gain access to your home. It's also worth asking your installer about anti-lift blocks that can be installed with the locks that are already in place to will keep your window locked in the closed position.
Handle locks are often damaged or fail. They are the first component that criminals utilize to force open your window. Fortunately, the good news is that this is among the most straightforward parts to fix.
Modern uPVC handles and aluminium handles come with a multi-point locking mechanism known as Espagnolette which is designed to ward off forced entry. This security upgrade is often provided as an additional option on new uPVC window installation. Older uPVC and aluminium handles can be upgraded to lock systems that shoot bolts also as an optional option on double-glazed windows.
When a handle is faulty it's crucial to get it repaired as quickly as possible. 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 with a plethora of opportunities could exploit, therefore placing your home and belongings at risk of theft.
To repair the broken mechanism, you must first gain access to the window frame and then remove the broken handle. The gearbox is then accessed to identify the type of gearbox that is used to open the handle. This allows a replacement that matches the profile and internal window frame mechanisms.
After double glazing window repairs has been repaired the handle can be reattached using the original screws. We recommend replacing them with larger screws as they will provide the most secure fit. The final step is to apply a coat of clear sealant to shield the handle from further corrosion. After that, your window will be operational again, and at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window.
Hinges that are broken or faulty
If your windows don't close properly, you may suffer from draughts or a weakening of your home's security barrier and a higher risk of water or damp damage. Window hinges that fail or fail are a common issue and are easily fixed.
If your windows made of uPVC won't open or shut, it is likely that hinges need to be replaced or repaired. While a lot of window companies require you to purchase a whole new window to resolve this simple issue, we're able to replace the faulty hinges and save you money.
Window hinges are often damaged due to repeated use or might be damaged through rust over time. If you've broken a window hinge, it's crucial to take the necessary precautions to avoid further damage. This means not causing the window to close or open.
You can locate the appropriate parts for your hinge by identifying the type of hinge it is. The most common kinds of window hinges include Maco, Mila, Roto and other brands. Talk to a professional before purchasing parts that will not fit into your existing hardware. This can result in more damage.
The hinges that are not working properly can cause major issue for your uPVC window and doors. They can be a major source of noise, and they can also permit water to enter your windows.
Check whether the pin barrels on both sides of the hinge are aligned. If not, tap the head pin using a hammer to make a small bend in the hinge barrel. This will help keep the pin in its place. Then, ask a helper to hold the door while you remove the hinge screws and hinges from both the doorjamb and the door. Replace the hinges and then install screws using glue. Finally put the hinges in place using weights or clamps while the glue is drying.
After you have fixed your hinges, you can install the door again. You can also attach the handle. Replace the screws with wood dowels that are the same length as the original screw to ensure they are in line.
Glass that is broken or damaged
uPVC Windows can be damaged over time, even though they are extremely effective in keeping cold out and keeping heat. This can include broken or damaged glass and faulty locks. This is an issue that can be very expensive when neglected. It also can detract from the aesthetics of your house and may lead to a loss of insulation, which is why it's important to repair any damage as soon as you can.
If the glass is cracked but not shattered it is possible to fix it yourself with the proper tools and methods. Make sure the area surrounding the glass that has been broken is free of debris so that any pieces of glass do not cause injuries or trip hazards. Then, remove the broken glass pieces and dispose of them in a proper manner. Then, put masking tape over the entire area to prevent shards from scattering and sticking to your skin when you move them. Pre-fitting the glass pane prior to gluing it in place is an ideal option in the case of windows with two panes. This will ensure that you have enough room to finish your project.
Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe clean the surface of the broken glass and the frame prior to applying the glue. Follow the application and curing instructions that may differ from product-to-product. Based on the angle of the crack, you may want to hold the glass during the curing process with lightweight clamps designed to hold fragile materials.
After the adhesive has completely cure, carefully insert the glass into the window frame. Make sure it's aligned with the frame's edge and that there aren't gaps between the glass sash and frame. Be careful not to bend the glass when you reinstall it because this could weaken the seal. This could result in water infiltration or condensation.
If you have a glass window that's completely broken or has larger cracks, contact a professional glazier like O'Brien(r) to organise a replacement. It's crucial to act fast if you have broken glass.
