Double Glazing Lock Repairs
Good locks on your doors and windows will help prevent burglars from gaining entry into your home. In general, they don't enjoy 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 issues can usually be resolved without the need to replace double glazing.
Broken or Faulty Locks
A locksmith can repair your uPVC window or door lock if damaged or is not working properly. They can fix hinges, striker plate and locks for double glazing. They can also reposition the cylinder to fix any misalignment problems that could be causing your handle to not operate correctly.
If the key fits in the lock but it won't turn or is difficult to insert then the mechanism may be seized up. This could be due to dirt or grime accumulating within the mechanism. If this is the situation, it may be possible for the lock to be cleaned and lubricated. Use a dry lubricant such as graphite or teflon, not oil, because oil attracts dirt and cause it to stick to the mechanism's inside. After lubricating the lock you need to insert the key and attempt to turn it. The lubricant must be absorbed into the mechanism, and the lock should spin easily.
Screws that are loose within the lock mechanism are a different cause of a faulty lock. They may loosen and fall out, or even break completely, preventing the lock to perform as it should. A screwdriver can be used to tighten these screws but caution must be taken not to tighten them too much, as this can cause damage to internal components.
A damaged lock could be dangerous for you and your family members particularly if you have young children. It's possible for them to open the door without knowing and thus give them access to your home. If you're worried about this happening, then a licensed locksmith can offer rapid and effective service to secure your double glazing doors.
Misty Glaze is a professional uPVC company in Lancing that repairs all types of damaged and broken mechanisms on uPVC doors and windows. We can also alter the locking mechanism on your uPVC windows or double glazing to meet your requirements. This means that replacement windows or doors are not always required.
Handles that are broken or damaged
Many double glazed windows feature the multi-point lock as part of the overall security package. This is a great option for those who are worried about potential burglars trying to gain access to their home. It is also a good idea to ask your installer about anti-lift locks which can be put in with the existing locks and will keep your window secured in its closed position.
It's not uncommon for handle locks to become damaged or fail - they are the first component of your window to be pushed open by criminals intent on breaking in. The good news is, this is one of the easiest parts to fix.
Modern handles made of aluminium and uPVC have a multi-point locking mechanism called Espagnolette that is designed to resist forced entry. This security upgrade is offered as an option for new uPVC windows. As an upgrade option older style uPVC or aluminium handles that are no longer in use can be upgraded to shoot bolt locking systems.
If a handle is damaged, it is essential to get the handle repaired as soon as is possible. Faulty handles can prevent the window from closing correctly and also allowing drafts to enter. It could also be a vulnerability that thieves who are opportunistic could exploit, putting your family's belongings and your own at risk.
To repair the broken mechanism, you first need to gain access to the window frame and then remove the broken handle. The gearbox that opens the handle is removed and the type of gear is identified so that a replacement can be sourced which is in line with the profile of the internal window frame mechanisms.
After the mechanism has been replaced, the handle can be fixed using the original screws - however, we generally recommend replacing them with larger ones since this will provide an even more secure fit. The final stage is to apply a coat of clear sealant to protect the handle from further rust. Once that's done the window will be fully operational again and at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window.
Broken or Faulty Hinges
If your windows don't shut properly, you could suffer from draughts or a weakening of your home's security and an increased chance of damp or water damage. Window hinges that break or fail to function properly are a common occurrence and can be easily repaired.
If your windows made of uPVC won't open or close, it is likely that the hinges require to be replaced or repaired. While a lot of window companies require you to purchase a whole new window unit in order to resolve this simple issue We can replace the damaged hinges and save you money.
Window hinges may break due to repeated use or could be weakened due to corrosion over time. In the event of a broken hinge, it's crucial to take measures to prevent further damage by taking care not to make the window swing open or closed.
Knowing the type of hinge you have will help you identify the correct parts to fix it. Maco, Mila and Roto are all brands of window hinges. Consult a professional to avoid purchasing parts that won't fit with your existing hardware. This can result in further damage.
The hinges that are not working properly can be a huge issue for uPVC windows and doors. They can be a major source of noise, and they can also allow water to enter your windows.
Check that the pin barrels on both hinge halves are aligned. If not, tap the head pin with a hammer to make an arc in the barrel of the hinge. This will help keep the pin in position. Then, ask a helper to hold the door while you remove the hinges and hinges from both the doorjamb as well as the door. Replace the hinges with ones that are of the same size, and install the screws with glue. Finally fix the hinges using weights or clamps while the glue sets.
After you have repaired your hinges, you are able to install the door again. You can also attach the handle. It is a good idea to replace the screws using the same length of dowels as the original screw, so that they are in line with each other.
Glass that is broken or damaged
While uPVC windows do an excellent job of keeping the cold out and warm in, they can become damaged over time. This can include broken or damaged glass, as well as faulty locks. This is a problem that could be extremely costly when neglected. It can also affect the appearance of your home and can lead to a loss in insulation. It is essential to repair any damage immediately.
You can repair the crack in your glass by yourself if you have the appropriate tools and techniques. Make sure that the area around the broken glass is free of debris to ensure that fragments don't cause injury or trip hazards. Remove all broken glass pieces and dispose of them in a proper manner. double glazing window repairs masking tape over the entire area. This will prevent shards of glass from sticking to your skin and scattering when you move them. If you're dealing with a double-paned window it's best to pre-fit the pane of glass before glueing it back in place to ensure that you'll have enough space complete the project.
Before applying the glue, clean the entire surface of the broken frame and glass with a a dry, clean cloth. Follow the curing and application directions that differ from product to product. You may need to clamp the glass that has cracked using clamps that are lightweight and designed to support fragile materials, depending on the angle.
After the adhesive has fully cure, carefully install the glass in the window frame, making sure it's flush with the edge of the frame, and there aren't any gaps between the glass and the window sash. Be cautious not to flex the window as it's being installed, as this could weaken the seal and lead to condensation and water infiltration.
If you have a glass window that's completely broken or has larger cracks, consult an experienced professional glazier such as O'Brien(r) to organise the replacement. Leaving broken glass unattended can be a risk to children and pets It's therefore essential to act quickly.