Double Glazing Lock Repairs
A good quality lock on your windows and doors will stop burglars from gaining access to your home. They don't usually like to break glass or attempt to get through windows that are open.
However, some double glazing owners have had problems with their door or window lock after it was installed. These issues can usually be fixed without the need to replace double glazing.
Broken or damaged locks
If your uPVC door or window lock is broken or faulty or has a problem, a locksmith will repair it for you. They will be able to fix the striker plates, hinges and locks on your double-glazed. They can also adjust the cylinder in order to fix any misalignment which could cause your handle to work properly.
If double glazing repairs Ealing in the lock but doesn't turn or is difficult to insert the mechanism might be stuck. The dirt or grease could be trapped in the mechanism. If this is the case, it may be possible for the lock to be cleaned and lubricated. It is crucial to apply a dry lubricant like graphite or teflon instead of oil which can attract dirt and adhere to the inside of the mechanism. After lubricating, insert the key into the lock and turn it. The lubricant should get into the mechanism, and the lock should be able to turn easily.
A malfunctioning lock could be caused by loose screws inside the lock mechanism. They can become loose and fall out, or even break completely, preventing the lock from being able to work properly. A screwdriver is a tool to tighten these screws however, it is important not to tighten them too much, since this could cause damage to the internal components.
A damaged lock can be dangerous for your family and you. This is especially true if you have small children. They could easily open the door without knowing, giving them access to your home. If you're worried that this could happen, a vetted professional locksmith can help you secure the double-glazed doors.
Misty Glaze is a professional uPVC company in Lancing that can repair all kinds of defective and damaged mechanisms on uPVC windows and doors. We can also reconfigure your uPVC or double glazing locking system to meet your specific requirements, meaning that in most cases, replacement doors and windows are not required.
Handles that are damaged or faulty
As part of their overall security package many double-glazed windows come with a multipoint lock. This is a great option for those who are concerned about potential burglars trying to gain access to their home. It is also a good idea to ask your locksmith about anti-lift blocks which can be put in with the locks that are already in place to ensure that your window is locked in the closed position.
It's not uncommon for handles to be damaged or even fail - they are the first part of your window that will be pushed open by criminals intent on breaking in. Fortunately, the good news is that this is among the easiest parts to repair.
Modern uPVC and aluminium handles have a multi-point locking mechanism known as Espagnolette which is designed to resist forced entry. This security upgrade is available as an option on new uPVC windows. As an optional upgrade, older style aluminium or uPVC handles that are no longer used can be upgraded to the shoot bolt locking system.
When a handle is faulty it is essential to get the handle repaired as quickly as you can. Faulty handles may prevent the window from closing properly and permit a draft to enter. It could also be a vulnerability that thieves who are opportunistic could exploit and put your family's possessions and your own at risk.
To fix the malfunctioning mechanism, you first need to access the window frame and then remove the damaged handle. The gearbox can then be accessed to determine the kind of gearbox that is used to open the handle. This will permit a replacement that matches the profile and the internal window frame mechanisms.
Once the mechanism has been replaced the handle can be re-affixed with the original screws - but we would recommend replacing them with more long screws as this will give an even more secure fit. The final step is to apply a layer of clear sealant in order to protect the handle from further rust. Once that's done the window will be functional again, and at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window.
Broken or Faulty Hinges
If your windows do not close properly, draughts can enter your home, the security measures will be compromised and there's an increased risk of damp or water damage. Window hinges that fail or fail to function properly are a common problem and can be fixed easily.
If your windows made of uPVC won't close or open and close, it's likely the hinges require to be replaced or repaired. A lot of window manufacturers will require that you purchase a new window unit to address this problem, but we can replace the hinges in order to save you money.
Window hinges can often break due to repeated use or could be weakened by corrosion over time. In the event of a damaged hinge, it's important to take steps to prevent further damage by taking care not to force the window to close or open.
You can find the right parts for your hinge by identifying its model. Maco, Mila and Roto are all manufacturers of window hinges. It is recommended to speak with a professional in this case to ensure that you don't make the mistake of buying parts that are not compatible with your existing hardware and could cause further damage.
A damaged hinge can be a huge problem for your uPVC window and doors. They can be a significant source of noise, and they can also allow for water infiltration that can cause damage to your windows.
Verify whether the pin barrels on both hinge halves are aligned. If it's not then tap the headpin using the hammer to create a slight bend in hinge barrel. This will help keep the pin in the right position. Then, ask a friend to hold the door as you remove the hinge screws and hinges from both the doorjamb as well as the door. Replace the hinges using those of a matching size and attach the screws using glue. Finally, while the glue is drying, fix the hinges by using clamps or weights.
Once your hinges are repaired after which you will be able to put back the door and re-attach the handle. It is recommended to replace the screws using the same length of dowels as the original screw, so that they align with each other.
Broken or faulty glass
While uPVC windows do an excellent job of keeping cold out and warm in, they are susceptible to becoming damaged over time. This can be the case with broken or damaged glass as well as defective locks. This is a problem that can be very expensive if neglected. It also can detract from the appearance of your home and may lead to a loss of insulation, so it is essential to fix any damage as soon as you can.
You can repair the crack in your glass yourself if you have the right tools and techniques. First, make sure the area around the glass is clear so that any shards don't injure anyone and aren't an accident 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 prevent shards of glass from sticking to your skin and scattering when you move them. Pre-fitting the glass pane before adhering it to the wall is a good idea when you have a window that has two panes. This will ensure that you have enough space to complete your project.
Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe clean the surface of the broken glass and the frame before applying the glue. Follow the application and curing instructions that may differ from one product to the next. Depending on the degree of the crack you may want to clamp the glass in place during curing. This can be done using lightweight clamps that are designed to hold delicate materials.
When the adhesive has completely cured, carefully reinstall the glass into the window frame, ensuring it's flush with the edges of the frame and that there are no gaps between the glass and the window sash. Be careful to avoid flexing the window as it's being reinstalled, as this can weaken the seal and lead to water infiltration and condensation.
Get in touch with a professional glazier, such as O'Brien(r) to arrange an appointment to replace your glass if the window is completely broken. It's crucial to act fast when you notice broken glass.