Repairing double glazing window locks is vital to keeping your home safe. The hinges and handles that are not in good condition can allow drafts to enter your home, leaving your windows vulnerable to burglars.
Thankfully, it's easy to repair sluggish uPVC handles and locks without replacing your door or window. Cooling or oiling the mechanisms can often help resolve any issues.
Broken Glass
Over time, double-glazing window locks can get worn down. As this happens, the handles can become difficult to open or even close. This can cause issues with ventilation in the house and could also pose an issue for security. In order to rectify this, it's important to fix the window as soon as you can.
Double-glazed windows comprise two or more glass panes that have gas in between to provide insulation. A seal also holds the panes together. Having condensation in between the glass panes is typically a sign that there is an issue with one of the seals, and will need to be replaced. This usually involves replacing only one window pane which is much less costly than replacing the entire glass window.
Condensation and cloudiness are usually the result of a blown seal on windows with double glazing. This could be due to many reasons, such as air leaks or an excess amount of moisture in the property. It's important to contact an expert in double glazing to fix the gas and seal in your double-glazed window when you spot this problem.
It is possible to replace only one pan of double-glazed glass, however it is not recommended without the help of a specialist. This is due to the fact that it requires specialized tools and the proper expertise to complete the task safely. You could end up damaging the window frame or even your health if trying to do it yourself.
A lot of people use a crowbar in order to open their double-glazed windows when it is stuck, however, this can leave the window frame bruised and dented. A window specialist will be able to remove the handle and open the window without causing any further damage. They can also transform the old window mechanisms into modern ones.
Over time, window hinges get stiffer and more difficult to open, especially in areas that are noisy. It's important to regularly lubricate your window hinges using silicone spray. It is also essential to avoid closing the window heavy or closing it using the handles as this can harm the hinges as well as the lock mechanism.
Broken Sash
This is a typical problem with older double-glazed windows. It is sometimes difficult to lock and open a windows if the upper sash is out of its pocket. This is usually because the pins are disengaged or a balance shoe is disconnected. It's crucial to understand the way your sash has been installed before attempting to repair it.
This can be resolved by removing the sash, and then cleaning it thoroughly. This will let you know if the sash is still an appropriate match. If not, you'll have to add sash stops in order to ensure it stays in place. They are available from the internet or in most hardware stores. Once you've cleaned the sash, you can replace the parting beads, and lubricate the pulley axles with a Teflon or silicone spray. Label the weights prior to taking them off them to ensure that you are able to reinstall them correctly.
A broken handle is another common problem. It's difficult to tell if your window handle is damaged However, there are a few indicators. If the handle feels rigid or difficult to use or doesn't feel like it's secured to the wall, then it's damaged.
This could be due to an unintentional lack of use however it's also possible that the handle has cracked or become detached. In some cases the handle could be internally broken and cannot be repaired. However, it's still worth trying to fix the issue as soon as possible.
To take off the window sash it is possible to unscrew hinges that hold it to the frame. It can be a difficult task, so you'll need someone to help hold the sash securely. After removing the hinges, it's necessary to clean them as well as the areas around them. You can also try to attach the hinges again and test the handle to be sure that it's functioning correctly. If it's not, you may want to consider replacing it. This will ensure that your window is as secure as could be.
Broken Handle
The window handle is a delicate part with intricate mechanisms, and it's not unusual for them to wear out or break in time. As such, it's essential that broken handles are repaired as fast as possible to avoid a lack of functionality and security issues.
Fortunately, it is not difficult to change the window handle. The window handle can be replaced by anyone with a few DIY skills. In contrast to the sash, which is secured by a number of bolts, the window handle requires only one or two screws. It is important to test the handle after it is installed to ensure that it functions correctly. This includes locking the handle and looking for gaps that could allow drafts in or opportunistic thieves to access your home.
The most common cause of the broken handle on a window is simply wear and tear resulting from regular use. However extreme stress or force can also lead to a broken handle. Slamming or forcing a window open can put additional stress on the handle, which can increase the risk of damage, so it's best to perform every handling task carefully and gently.
Other reasons for a broken handle are poor maintenance, aging or design issues. Lack of regular cleaning and lubrication could cause the handle to wear out quickly, and this is often the result of dirt or debris that builds up over time. In addition the handle could be damaged by improper installation or alignment issues.
If the solutions previously mentioned aren't working then the Tasker may need to gain access to and remove the lock mechanism itself. This could mean removing the frame or 'breaking out' the existing window frame and bead made of plastic (to give more wriggle room). The replacement lock can then be installed to match the shape of the uPVC handle. The new handle can then be attached and the procedure is complete. Tasker will give you a quote on the cost of repair in the event that this is the case.
Faulty Lock
When window locks become damaged, it's crucial to repair the issue immediately. The reason is that a damaged window can lead to drafts and weaken security barriers, making your home vulnerable to burglary. Window lock repair is typically not a major task, however it is better to let a professional deal with the issue before it becomes worse and cost more in the end.
UPVC window handles are available in two different styles: cockspur handles and espagnolette handles. The first uses a central rod to operate the cams in a mushroom shape that secure into window frame keepers. The lock's mushroom cams are activated by a handle attached to spindles. The latch of the lock then clips into a window frame's mortise and catches.
Both kinds of UPVC windows locks are prone for damage, particularly in older homes. The damage can occur when the sash gets bent or misaligned, and it might even fall off. In these cases the lock has to be reinstalled in order to prevent draughts or loss of energy efficiency. A Tasker can replace the defective locks for you and provide peace of mind knowing your windows are safe from intruders.
A Tasker will examine the double glazing of your window to identify the issue. Once they have all the details, they'll set up their tools before arriving at your home. double glazing repair 'll typically bring a Phillips-head screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, wood putty and fine-grit paper.
Tasker will have to loosen screws that secure both parts of the lock to the window frame if the sash is not aligned correctly. Then, they'll remove the latch, then fill the mounting holes with wood putty (if necessary) and sand the area until it's flush with the rest of the frame.
If the lock is rusted they'll clean it with wire brush or oil and lubricate it with grease to keep it functioning smoothly. They will also check the condition of the latch and reinstall it.
