Double Glazing Lock Repairs A good quality lock on your windows and doors can stop burglars from getting into your home. In general, they don't enjoy breaking glass or trying to wiggle through windows that are not closed. Certain double glazing owners however, have encountered issues with their window or door lock after installing. These issues can be solved without the need for a new double glazing. Broken or Faulty Locks If your uPVC window or door lock is broken or faulty or has a problem, a locksmith will repair it for you. They can repair the striker plates, hinges and locks on your double glazing. They can also reposition the cylinder in order to fix any misalignment which could be causing your handle to operate correctly. If the key fits into the lock, but it doesn't turn or is difficult to insert, then the mechanism may be seized up. Grease or dirt can get stuck in the mechanism. If this is the case it could be possible for the lock to be cleaned and lubricated. Use a dry lubricant like graphite or teflon but not oil as oil attracts dirt and cause it to stick to the inside mechanism. After lubricating the lock you need to insert the key and then try to turn it. The lubricant should make its way through the mechanism, and the lock should be able to rotate easily. Screws that are loose within the lock mechanism are another reason for a malfunctioning lock. They can loosen and fall out or break completely and stop the lock from functioning properly. The screws can be tightened by using a screwdriver, but be careful not to over tighten them. This can damage the internal components. A damaged lock can be dangerous for your family and you. This is particularly relevant if you have young children. They can easily unlock the door without your knowledge and gain access to your house. If you're worried about the possibility that this could happen, a vetted professional locksmith can help re-secure the double glazing doors. Misty Glaze are a professional uPVC and double glazing company based in Lancing that can fix any type of defective and damaged mechanisms, handles, cylinders and lock systems on uPVC windows and doors. We can also modify your uPVC or double glazing locking system to meet your specific requirements, meaning that in a lot of cases replacement windows and doors are not necessary. Broken or Faulty Handles As part of their overall security package, most double-glazed windows feature a multipoint lock. This is a great choice for those who are worried about potential burglars trying to gain access to their home. Ask your locksmith for antilift locks. These can be installed in addition to existing locks and can aid in keeping your windows shut. It's not uncommon for handle locks to get damaged or fail. They are the first part of your window to be pushed open by criminals intent on breaking in. Fortunately, the good news is that this is among the most straightforward parts to fix. Modern uPVC and aluminium handles operate a multi-point locking system called Espagnolette which is designed to resist forced entry. This security upgrade is offered as an option on new uPVC windows. Older style uPVC and aluminum handles can be upgraded to lock systems that shoot bolts and again as an additional feature on all new double-glazed windows. If a handle is damaged, it is essential to get the handle repaired as quickly as possible. Handles that are damaged can prevent the window from closing properly and allow drafts in. It can also be a flaw that thieves who are opportunistic could take advantage of, putting your family's belongings and your personal belongings at risk. To repair the damaged mechanism, you must first access the window frame, then take off the damaged handle. The gearbox that opens the handle is accessed and the type identified, so that a replacement may be sourced which matches the profile of the internal window frame mechanisms. Once the mechanism is replaced the handle can be fixed using the original screws - however, we usually recommend replacing them with longer ones as this will give a more secure fit. The final stage is to apply a coating of clear sealant in order to protect 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 correctly, draughts may get in, your home's security measures will be compromised, and there is an increased chance of damp or water damage. Window hinges that break or fail are a common occurrence and can be easily repaired. If you have a uPVC window that won't close or open, it's likely your hinges are broken or damaged and need to be replaced. Most window companies will require you to purchase an entirely new window unit in order to fix this simple issue, but we are able to replace the hinges in order to save you money. Window hinges are usually damaged by repeated use or weakening over time due to corrosion. If you have a broken window hinge, it is essential to take steps to prevent further damage. This includes not forcing the window to open or close. double glazing repair can locate the appropriate parts for your hinge by identifying the type of hinge it is. Maco, Mila and Roto are all window hinges. It is recommended to consult a professional in this case to avoid the mistake of buying parts that aren't compatible with your current hardware and could cause further damage. A damaged hinge can be a major issue for your uPVC windows and doors. They can be a significant source of noise, and they can also allow water to infiltrate which could damage your windows. Verify that the pin barrels on both sides of the hinge are aligned. If not tapping the headpin, use a hammer in order to create a slight bend in hinge barrel. This will help keep the pin in the right position. A friend can help you hold the doors while you take off hinge screws and hinges. Replace the hinges with ones that are the same size and then attach the screws using glue. After the glue is drying, secure the hinges with clamps or weights. After you have repaired the hinges, you can install the door again. You can also reattach the handle. It is a good idea to replace the screws using the same length of wood dowels as the original screw so that they align with each one. Broken or faulty glass While uPVC windows do an excellent job of keeping cold out and the heat in, they may become damaged over time. This could include damaged or broken glass and damaged locks. This is an issue that can be costly if not addressed. It can also affect your home's aesthetics and lead to a loss in insulation. It is essential to fix any damage as soon as it occurs. If your glass has cracked but not shattered it is possible to fix it yourself using the right tools and methods. Make sure the area around the glass that has been broken is free of debris to ensure that shards do not cause injury or cause a trip hazard. Then, remove any broken glass pieces and dispose of them in a proper way. Apply masking tape across the entire area. This will stop shards of glass from sticking to your skin and splintering when you move them. If you're dealing with a double-pane window it's best to pre-fit the pane of glass before gluing it back in place so that you are sure you'll have enough space complete the project. Use a dry, clean cloth to clean the glass's surface and the frame prior to applying the glue. Follow the application and curing instructions, which may vary from one product to the next. Depending on the angle of the crack, you may need to clamp the glass to hold it in place while it is curing. You can do this using lightweight clamps designed to hold fragile materials. After the adhesive has completely cure, carefully insert the glass inside the window frame. Make sure that it is in line with the frame edge and that there aren't gaps between the glass sash and the frame. Be cautious not to flex the window while it's reinstalled, as this can weaken the seal and lead to condensation and water infiltration. Contact a professional glazier, like O'Brien(r) to arrange a replacement if your glass window is completely shattered. It's essential to act swiftly if you have broken glass.
double glazing repair
