Double Glazing Window Locks Repairs
Repairing double glazing window locks is crucial to ensure the security of your home. Insecure hinges and handles can allow drafts to enter your home, making your windows vulnerable to burglars.
Thankfully, it's easy to repair stiff uPVC handles and locks without replacing the door or window. In most cases, cooling or lubricating your mechanism can help solve any problems.
Broken Glass
Over time, double-glazing window locks wear down. The handles can become difficult to open, or even close. This can result in issues with ventilation in the house and can also be an security risk. It is crucial to have the window repaired as quickly as you can.
Double-glazed windows are made up of two or more glass panes that have gas in between to provide insulation. A seal also holds the panes together. If you see condensation between the glass panes, it is likely that one of these seals needs to be replaced. This will typically involve replacing just one window pane and is much less expensive than replacing the entire window.
A blow-up seal inside a double glazed window usually results in condensation and cloudiness. This can be caused by many causes, including air leaks or excessive moisture in the property. When you first notice the problem, it's important to contact a double glazing expert to repair the seal and gas in your double-glazed windows.
It is possible to replace a single pane of double glazing glass but it is not recommended to do so without the assistance of an expert. It is important to have the right tools and expertise to do the job safely. You could end up damaging the window frame or even your health if you attempt to do it yourself.
If a double-glazed window gets stuck, many people will make use of a crowbar in an attempt to open it. However, this usually causes the frame to be damaged and swollen. A specialist in window repair can remove the handle from the window and allow it to open without causing further damage. They can also change obsolete window mechanisms into more modern mechanisms.
As time passes, window hinges get stiffer and more difficult to open, especially if the area is noisy. To prevent this from happening it is a good idea to keep the hinges lubricated on a regular basis using silicone spray. Be careful not to close the window using the handles or closing it heavily. This could cause damage to the hinges.
Broken Sash
This is a typical problem with older double-glazed windows. If the upper sash has fallen out of its pocket, it may be difficult to lock it and then open the window. This is usually because the pins have been disengaged or a balance shoe has been disconnected. Each sash is unique and therefore it is essential to know how yours are set up prior to trying to fix it.
This can be resolved by removing the sash, and cleaning it thoroughly. This will also show whether the sash is a good match. If not, you can add sash stoppers to keep it in place. They are available online or at most hardware stores. After you've cleaned the sash and replaced the beads that are parting, and lubricate the pulley axles with a Teflon or silicone spray. Label the weights prior to removing them so that you can put them back in them in the correct way.
A damaged handle is another common issue. Window handles can be difficult to detect However, there are obvious signs that indicate yours is broken. If the handle is spongy or stiff, or doesn't feel secure, it is likely broken.
It could be due to a lack of use, or the handle may have cracked or detached. In certain cases, the handle may be damaged internally and cannot be repaired. However, it is still worth trying to fix the issue as quickly as you can.
To take off the window sash it is possible to unscrew hinges that hold it to the frame. This is a difficult task, so it's essential to have someone to help hold the sash and ensure it is steady. After you have removed the hinges, it's necessary to clean them as well as the areas around them. You should also try to reattach the hinges and test the handle to make sure that it's functioning correctly. If it doesn't it, you might want to consider replacing it. This will ensure that your window is as secure as it can be.
Broken Handle
The window handle is a delicate piece with intricate mechanisms, and it's uncommon for these to deteriorate or break over time. It's important to repair any damaged handles as soon as possible in order to avoid security and functionality issues.
Fortunately, it's easy to replace a window handle. As opposed to a sash that requires a number of bolts to secure, the window handle is secured using two screws making it a simple DIY job for anyone with a little of experience. Once the new handle is in place, it's crucial to test it to make sure the mechanisms are functioning correctly. This includes locking the handle and checking for gaps that could allow drafts to infiltrate your home or allow burglars to gain entry.
A common reason for a broken window handle is that it's worn down by repeated use. However, excessive stress or force can also lead to the handle breaking. A window that is smashed or forced open can place additional strain on the handle, which can increase the chance of injury, so it's best to complete all handling operations carefully and gently.
Other reasons for a damaged handle could be due to poor maintenance, ageing or design issues. A lack of regular cleaning and lubrication can cause the handle to break down quickly, and this is usually due to dirt or other debris that accumulates over time. In addition, the handle can be damaged by improper installation and alignment issues.
If the fixes previously mentioned aren't successful, the Tasker may require access to and take out the lock mechanism itself. This may involve removing the frame, or 'breaking out' the window frame and plastic bead (to allow more room for wiggle room). The new lock will then be adjusted to match the profile of your uPVC handle. After this is completed the new handle will be re-affixed and the process is complete. If this is the case the Tasker will provide a quote for the repair cost.
Faulty Lock
It is essential to fix any window locks that are damaged as soon as possible. A damaged window could cause draughts, weaken security barriers and make your home more vulnerable to burglary. Window lock repair is typically a minor job, but it is better to let an expert handle the issue before it gets worse and cost more in the long run.
UPVC window locks have two different variations: espagnolette handles and cockspur handles. The first makes use of a central rod to operate the cams in a mushroom shape which lock into window frame keepers. The lock's mushroom cams are activated by a handle that is attached to the spindle. The latch of the lock is inserted into the mortise and is able to catch a window frame.
Both kinds of UPVC windows locks are prone to damage, especially in older homes. This could happen when the sash is warped, misaligned or even comes loose. In these instances the lock needs to be replaced to stop draughts and loss of energy efficiency. A Tasker will replace the damaged locks for you and give you peace of mind knowing that your windows are protected from burglars.
A Tasker will first look at the double glazing of your window to identify the issue. Once they have all the details, they'll set up their tools before arriving at your home. They'll typically bring a Phillips-head screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, wood putty and fine-grit paper.
If the sash has been misaligned the Tasker will have to loosen the screws holding each piece of the lock to the window frame. double glazing repair near me 'll then remove the latch, then fill the mounting holes with wood putty (if applicable) and sand the area until it's smooth with the rest of the window frame.
If the lock is rusted, they'll clean it using wire brush or oil, and then lubricate it by applying grease to keep it functioning smoothly. They'll also make sure that the latch is in a good condition and re-install it.