Double Glazing Lock Repairs
Good locks on your doors and windows can stop burglars from entering your home. Generally, they don't like breaking glass or trying to wiggle through open windows.
Certain double glazing owners however, have encountered issues with their window or door lock after the installation. These problems can often be solved without the need for a new double glazing.
Broken or Faulty Locks
A locksmith can fix your uPVC window lock or door lock if it's damaged or broken. double glazing window repairs will be able to fix the striker plates, hinges, and locks on your double glazing. They can also move the cylinder to fix any misalignment which could be causing your handle to operate correctly.
If the key fits in the lock but it won't turn or is difficult to insert, the mechanism might be locked up. This can be due to grime or dirt getting stuck inside the mechanism. If this is the situation, it may be possible for the lock to be cleaned and lubricated. 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 lubricating, insert the key into the lock and turn it. The lubricant should make through the mechanism and the lock should be able to turn with ease.
A faulty lock can also be caused by loose screws within the mechanism of the lock. They may loosen and fall out or even break off completely preventing the lock to perform as it should. The screws can be tightened using a screwdriver, but you must be careful not to over tighten them. This could cause damage to the internal components.
A broken lock can be dangerous for both you and your family members, particularly if you have young children. They can easily unlock the door without your knowledge and gain access to your home. If you're worried that this might occur, a professional locksmith can assist you secure the double-glazed doors.
Misty Glaze are a professional uPVC and double glazing company based in Lancing and can repair all kinds of damaged and broken mechanisms, handles, cylinders and lock systems on uPVC windows and doors. We can also alter your uPVC or double glazing locking system to meet your particular requirements, which means that in most cases, replacement doors and windows are not necessary.
Handles that are damaged or faulty
As part of their overall security plan, most double-glazed windows feature a multipoint lock. This is an excellent option for those who are concerned about opportunistic burglars trying to gain access to their home. It is also a good idea to ask your installer about anti-lift blocks that can be installed with the existing locks and will keep your window secured in its closed position.
Handle locks are often damaged or fail. They are the first thing criminals employ to open your window. The good news is that this is one of the easiest parts to repair.
Modern handles made of aluminium and uPVC have a multi-point locking mechanism called Espagnolette that is designed to resist forced entry. This upgrade to security is typically provided as an additional option on new uPVC window installations. Older style uPVC and aluminium handles can be upgraded to lock systems that shoot bolts, again as an optional feature on all new double-glazed window installations.
When a handle is faulty it's crucial to get it repaired as quickly as you can. Faulty handles can prevent the window from closing correctly and also allowing drafts to enter. It could also be a vulnerability that thieves can exploit, putting your family's belongings and your own at risk.
To repair the broken mechanism, you first need to access the window frame and then remove the broken handle. The gearbox is then opened to determine the kind of gearbox that is used to open the handle. This allows to replace the handle that matches the profile and the internal window frame mechanisms.
Once the mechanism has been replaced the handle can be re-attached using the original screws however, we generally recommend replacing them with larger ones since this will provide a more secure fit. The final stage is to apply a layer of clear sealant to shield the handle from further rust. After that, your window will be fully operational again and at less than the cost of replacing the entire window.
Broken or Faulty Hinges
If your windows do not close properly, you may be experiencing draughts, an affliction of your home's security barrier and an increased chance of damp or water damage. Window hinges that break or become faulty are a common issue and are easily fixed.
If you have a uPVC window that won't close or open it's likely that the hinges are broken or damaged and need to be replaced. While most window manufacturers require you to purchase a new window unit to solve this issue We can replace the damaged hinges and save you money.
Window hinges may break after repeated use, or they may be weakened through rust over time. If you find a broken hinge, it is important to take measures to prevent further damage by taking care not to make the window swing to open or close.
Knowing the type of hinge you have will help you identify the right parts to repair it. The most common types of window hinges include Maco, Mila, Roto and many other brands. It's best to consult a professional in this case to ensure that you don't make the mistake of purchasing parts that are not compatible with your current hardware and cause further damage.
A damaged hinge can be a huge problem for your uPVC windows and doors. They can be a major source of noise and can also permit water to get into your windows.
Verify whether the pin barrels on both hinge halves are aligned. If it's not, tap the headpin with the hammer to create a slight bend in hinge barrel. This will hold the pin in position. A friend can help you hold the doors as you take off hinge screws and hinges. Replace the hinges and attach screws using glue. After the glue is drying, put a secure hold on the hinges with clamps or weights.
After you have fixed your hinges, you are able to put the door back in place. You could also reattach the handle. It is a good idea to replace the screws with the same length of dowels as the screw that was originally used so that they align with each other.
Broken or faulty glass
uPVC Windows can become damaged in time, despite the fact they are excellent at keeping out the cold and retaining heat. This could include cracked or damaged glass as well as defective locks. If neglected, this could be a costly problem. It also can detract from the aesthetics of your house and may lead to a loss of insulation, which is why it's crucial to repair any damage as soon as possible.
You can repair your cracked glass by yourself if your have the proper tools and techniques. Make sure that the area surrounding the broken glass is free of debris to ensure that shards do not cause injury or cause a trip hazard. Then, you must remove any pieces of broken glass and dispose of them in a safe manner. Apply masking tape to the entire area. This will stop glass shards from sticking to your skin and scattering when you move them. Pre-fitting the glass pane before gluing it in place is a good idea in the case of a window that has two panes. This will ensure you have enough space to finish your project.
Before applying the glue, clean the surface of the broken frame and glass with a an unclean, dry cloth. Follow the application and curing instructions that 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.
When the adhesive has completely cure, carefully install the glass inside the window frame, ensuring that it is flush with the edge of the frame and that there aren't any gaps between the glass and the window sash. Be careful not to bend the window as it's being installed, as this could weaken the seal and lead to water infiltration and condensation.
If you have a glass window that is broken completely or has bigger cracks, call an experienced professional glazier such as O'Brien(r) to arrange a replacement. It's essential to act swiftly when you notice broken glass.