Double Glazing Lock Repairs
Good locks on your windows and doors will help prevent burglars from entering your home. double glazing repair to break glass or try to squeeze through windows.
Some double glazing owners, however, have had issues with their window or door lock following the installation. Fortunately, these issues are usually fixable and don't require to pay for new double glazing.
Broken or faulty locks
If your uPVC door or window lock is damaged or broken, then a locksmith can fix it. They will be able to fix the hinges, striker plates and locks on your double-glazed. They can also reposition the cylinder in order to correct any misalignment that may be causing your handle not to operate correctly.
The mechanism may be locked if the key fits in the lock, but it does not turn or be difficult to insert. This can be due to dirt or grime accumulating in the mechanism. If this is the case, it may be possible for the lock to be cleaned and lubricated. Make use of a dry lubricant, like graphite or teflon and not oil, as oil can attract dirt, and cause it to stick to the mechanism's inside. After lubricating the lock, you should insert the key and attempt to turn it. The lubricant should make through the mechanism, and the lock should be able turn with ease.
A damaged lock can be caused by loose screws inside the mechanism of the lock. They can become loose and break off or fall out completely which can stop the lock from working properly. The screws can be tightened with a screwdriver, but be cautious not to tighten them too much. This could cause damage to the internal components.
A broken lock can be dangerous for you and your family members, especially if you have small children. They can open the door without knowing which gives them access to your house. If you're concerned that this might occur, a licensed professional locksmith can help you secure the double-glazed doors.
Misty Glaze are a professional uPVC and double glazing company in Lancing and can repair all types of faulty and damaged mechanisms, handles, cylinders and lock systems on both uPVC windows and doors. We can also reconfigure the locking system on your uPVC windows or double glazing to meet your needs. This means that replacement windows or doors are not always required.
Handles that are broken or damaged
As part of their overall security plan, most double-glazed windows feature a multipoint lock. This is a great choice for those who are worried about opportunistic burglars trying to gain entry into their home. It's also worth asking your installer about anti-lift blocks, these can be fitted with the existing locks and ensure that your window is secured in its closed position.
Handle locks are usually damaged or fail. They are the first component that criminals use to force open your window. Luckily, the good news is that this is among the most simple parts to repair.
Modern uPVC handles as well as aluminium handles are equipped with the multi-point locking mechanism referred to as Espagnolette that is designed to ward off forced entry. This security upgrade is offered as an option for new uPVC windows. As an optional upgrade older style uPVC or aluminium handles that are no longer in use can be upgraded to the shoot bolt locking system.
When a handle is faulty it is essential to get the handle repaired as soon as is possible. A damaged handle could prevent the window from closing properly and permit drafts to get in. It could also be a weakness that thieves can exploit and put the belongings of your family and your own at risk.
To repair the broken mechanism, you must first gain access to the window frame, then take off the damaged handle. The gearbox is then opened to determine the kind of gearbox used to open the handle. This allows to replace the handle that matches the profile and the internal window frame mechanisms.
After the mechanism has been replaced the handle can then be fixed with the original screws - however, we generally recommend replacing them with longer ones because this will ensure the most secure fit. The final stage is to apply a coat of clear sealant to shield the handle from further corrosion. After you've completed this step your window will be fully functional again at a fraction the cost of replacing it.
Broken or damaged hinges
If your windows don't close properly, you could suffer from draughts or an affliction of your home's security barrier and a higher chance of damp or water damage. Broken or damaged window hinges are a common issue that can be fixed easily.
If you have a uPVC window that won't close or open, it's likely your hinges are broken or damaged and require replacement. Many window companies will require you to purchase a new window unit to fix this simple problem, but we can replace the hinges and save you money.
Window hinges are often damaged due to repeated use or might be damaged through rust over time. If you find a broken hinge, it's important to take measures to prevent further damage by taking care not to make the window swing to open or close.
You can locate the appropriate parts for your hinge by identifying its model. The most commonly used types of window hinges include Maco, Mila, Roto and other brands. Get advice from a professional before purchasing parts that won't fit into your existing hardware. This can result in more damage.
A damaged hinge can be a huge problem for your uPVC window and doors. They can be an important source of noise and could also allow water to enter your windows.
Check whether the pin barrels on both hinge halves are aligned. If not then tap the head pin using an hammer to create a shallow bend in the hinge barrel. This will help to keep the pin in place. Ask a second person to hold the door while you take the hinge screws and hinges from both the doorjamb and the door. Replace the hinges and then install screws using glue. When the glue is drying, secure the hinges with clamps or weights.
Once the hinges have been fixed after which you will be able to install the door and attach the handle. It is recommended to replace the screws using the same length of dowels as the screw that was originally used so that they are in line with each other.
Broken or Faulty Glass
While uPVC windows do a great job of keeping the cold out and heat in, they can become damaged over time. This can be the case with broken or damaged glass, as well as faulty locks. If not taken care of, it can be a costly problem. It can also detract from the appearance of your home and can lead to loss of insulation, which is why it's important to repair any damage as quickly as you can.
If your glass is broken but isn't shattered it is possible to fix it yourself with the proper tools and techniques. First, make sure the surrounding area around the glass is clear so that any shards won't cause injury to anyone or are an accident hazard. Then, you must remove any pieces of broken glass and dispose of them in a safe manner. Apply masking tape over the entire area. This will prevent shards of glass from sticking to your skin and scattering when you move them. Making sure the glass pane is fitted prior to adhering it to the wall is an ideal option if you are dealing with windows that have two panes. This will ensure you have enough space to finish your project.
Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the surface of the broken glass and the frame prior to applying the glue. Follow the directions for application and curing times that can differ from product to product. Depending on the direction of the crack, you may need to secure the glass during curing. This can be done using lightweight clamps designed to hold fragile materials.
When the adhesive has completely cure, carefully install the glass in the window frame, ensuring it's flush with the edges of the frame, and there aren't any gaps between the glass and the window sash. Avoid flexing the glass as you reinstall it because this could weaken the seal. This could lead to water infiltration or condensation.
If you have a glass window that is completely shattered or has larger cracks, call a professional glazier like O'Brien(r) to organise an exchange. It's crucial to act fast if you have broken glass.