When a double glazing window isn't closed, it creates drafts and allows valuable heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.
Over time, double glazed window hinges handles, seals and handles can become damaged. If this happens it can impact the functionality of your windows and void any warranties you might have.
Locks that aren't working
While many take great care when installing anti-burglar devices for their gates and doors, it is often overlooked that windows are among the top targets for burglars. Poorly secured locks can cause drafts, allow valuable heat escape, and reduce the security of your home.
If you notice that your uPVC window locks are not working, there's an excellent chance that the lock mechanism is blocked. This is typically caused by the gearbox breaking in one component. This could cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees but not open. This is a common issue with uPVC casement windows, but is also seen in tilt and turn windows, and even sliding sash windows.
If this happens, you'll be able to release the lock by pressing the lever handle. This can allow you to free the gear box and restore the window's opening. If this does nothing it is possible to replace the entire window lock mechanism.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window which secure the window by using locks that look like mushrooms and are inserted into the frame keep. The handle operates the gearbox, which causes the cams, causing them to move upwards or downwards. The spindle of the lock could break and cause the handle to move but the door to close or open.
A damaged gearbox may cause your window to appear to be locked but not actually be. This could happen if the centre rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have been snapped off. Misty Glaze will supply and install replacement rods in the event that this happens.
It is important to not try to force a stuck or broken lock. This can cause a lock to snap or break in particular if you are using windows made of uPVC that expand and contracts as temperatures change. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who can identify the issue and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
The problem of windows and doors sticking is a serious annoyance, but they can also indicate more serious structural problems. If you're having difficulty to open or close a door or window it is important to seek out professional assistance as soon as possible. These issues can result from a variety of things that include foundation settlement as well as inadequate support for crawl spaces.
Frame problems or humidity could cause windows and doors to become stuck. If your frames are made of wood for instance, they could become brittle when exposed to humidity. Even if the hardware appears great, this could make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood expands when this happens, and it is pushed up against the hinges, creating friction.
If your window or door is sagging in summer you can try rubbing it with bar soap to decrease the friction. This will help it shrink and may resolve the problem temporarily. This procedure will have to be repeated sporadically during times of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the window or door to a smooth surface is a better and more lasting solution. This can be done by hand or with a power tool. A professional can also stain and sand or paint your door or window frame to get it looking fresh and new.
If soaping or sanding don't help, your problem may be caused by foundation settlement or a compromised crawlspace. Examine for cracks in your area. double glazing window repairs to contact a foundation specialist when you spot any of these signs. Damage to the foundation can cause uneven floors, a misaligned wall and doors and windows that are stuck. It is crucial to address these issues as early as possible to avoid more costly and risky repairs in the future. If left unattended, these issues could escalate to the point that your entire house is structurally unstable. Call the Southeast's top experts in foundation repair to set up an inspection today!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
Cracks can develop when double glazing begins to break down. This can be a snazzy sight and also let all the heat from your home to escape. It could also pose a safety risk for your family members, as the sharp pieces of glass can cause injury when they break. It is recommended to fix any double glazing windows that have cracks prior to it getting worse, as this may increase the cost of replacing them.
Window seals are crucial to prevent drafts from entering your home and to keep air between your window panes. Over time, the seals will shrink or eventually be destroyed due to changes in weather. If not checked, it can result in condensation, moisture and draughts inside your home.
This issue is typically solved by an expert. They can replace the window seal to restore your windows to their original state of repair. They can also recommend additional features that will decrease the possibility of a stress crack occurring in the future, such as 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 intended. Rub some lubricating oil on a lint free cloth and then rub them into hinges and handle mechanism as well as in places where they pass through frames (for instance, a window with sash). It may also be beneficial to remove the handles from their frames and wash them with warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit which has become stuck to them.
If your uPVC windows and doors are not functioning as they should, it is important to call in a professional to repair them. They will be able to determine the issue quickly and then resolve it within a short amount of time. It is a lot cheaper and safer than trying to do it yourself and potentially damaging the mechanisms. You'll also have peace of mind knowing your home is secure and secure.
