Double Glazing Window Locks Repairs
Repairing double glazing window locks is crucial to ensure your home's security. The hinges and handles that are not in good condition can allow drafts to enter your home, making your windows vulnerable to burglars.
You can, however, repair rigid uPVC locks or handles without replacing your door or window. Simply cooling or oiling the mechanisms can help to solve any issues.
Broken Glass
Over time, double-glazing window locks can wear down. The handles may become difficult to open, or even close. This can cause issues with ventilation and can also pose a security threat. It is essential to get the window fixed as soon as you can.
Double-glazed windows are made up of three or more glass panes that have gas between them to provide insulation, and an elastomer seal that holds the panes together. If you notice condensation between the glass panes it is likely that one of the seals requires replacement. This will typically involve replacing just the one window pane and is much less expensive than replacing the entire window.
A blow-up seal inside windows with double glazing typically results in cloudiness and condensation. This can be caused by a variety of causes, including air leaks or excess moisture in the home. It is essential to contact a double glazing specialist to fix the gas and seal in your double-glazed window immediately you notice this issue.
It is possible to replace just one pane of double-glazed glass, however this is not recommended without the help of a professional. This is because it requires specialized tools and the right skills to perform the task safely. Attempting to do this yourself could cause damage to the frame of the window, or even to your own health.
Many people use a crowbar in order to open their double glazed window when it's stuck, however, this can result in the window frame being damaged and swollen. A specialist in window repairs can take the handle from the window and allow it to open without causing further damage. They can also change the old window mechanisms into modern ones.
Over time, the hinges on windows can become stiffer and more difficult to open, especially if the area is noisy. It is essential to regularly lubricate your window hinges with silicone spray. Avoid closing the window with the handles or closing it heavily. This could cause damage to the hinges.
Broken Sash
This is a frequent issue with older double-glazed windows. If the upper sash has fallen out of its pocket, it can be difficult to lock it and open the window. This usually happens because the pins have disengaged, or a balance shoe has disconnected. Each sash is unique, so it's important to know how yours is set up before trying to fix this.
The best way to solve this is to remove the sash and clean it thoroughly. This will let you know whether the sash is in good alignment. If not, add stoppers for the sash to secure it. They are available from the internet or in most hardware stores. After cleaning the sash, you can replace the parting beads and lubricate pulley axles using Teflon or silicon spray. It's a good idea label the weights prior to when you remove them to ensure that you put them back in correctly.
Another issue that is frequently encountered is a broken handle. It can be difficult to tell if your window handle is broken however there are a few indicators. If the handle feels stiff or clunky, or if it doesn't feel secure, it is likely damaged.
It could be due to lack of use, or the handle may have cracked or detached. In certain cases, the handle could be broken internally and unable to be replaced. However, it is still worthwhile to attempt to fix the problem as soon as possible.
To take off the window sash, you may need to remove hinges that secure it to the frame. This can be a challenging job, so it's important to have someone to help hold the sash and keep it steady. After removing the hinges it's important to clean them as well as the surrounding areas. Reattaching the hinges is an excellent idea. You can test the handle and see if it works correctly. If it's not, you should consider replacing it. This will ensure that your window is as secure as it can be.
Broken Handle
The window handle is a delicate component with intricate mechanisms, and it's unusual for them to wear out or break as time passes. As such, it's essential that broken handles are repaired as soon as possible to avoid lack of functionality and security issues.
It is, however, not difficult to replace windows handles. As opposed to a sash that requires multiple bolts to secure, a window handle is secured using two screws which makes it a straightforward DIY project for anyone with a bit of experience. After the new handle is in place, it's important to test it to make sure the mechanisms are operating properly. This should include locking the handle and looking for any gaps that could allow drafts to enter or allow opportunistic thieves to access your home.
A common reason for a window handle that is broken is that it's worn down by repeated use. A broken handle can be caused by excessive force or stress. A window that is smashed or forced open can cause additional strain on the handle, which can increase the chance of injury, so it's always best to perform every handling task slow and slowly.
Other reasons for a broken hand include inadequate maintenance, aging or design issues. The handle may break prematurely due to an absence of regular cleaning and oiling. This is often caused by dirt or debris that has built up over time. The handle may be damaged due to incorrect installation or issues with alignment.
If the previously mentioned fixes don't work and the tasker isn't able to solve the issue, the Tasker might need to gain access to and take out the lock mechanism itself. This could mean removal of the frame, or 'breaking out' the window frame as well as the plastic bead (to give more wriggle room). A replacement lock may be fitted that is a similar profile to the existing uPVC handle. After that the new handle will be re-affixed and the process is complete. If this is the situation, the Tasker will give a price for repair costs.
Horley double glazing repairs
When window locks become damaged, it's crucial to fix the issue immediately. This is because a damaged window can cause drafts and weaken security barriers, making the property vulnerable to burglary. Window lock repair is usually not a major task, however it's best to have an expert tackle the issue before it becomes worse and costs more money in the long run.
UPVC window locks come in two different versions: 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 attached to spindles. The latch of the lock is inserted into the mortise and is able to catch the window frame.
Both kinds of UPVC window locks are prone to damage, particularly in older homes. This can happen if the sash is damaged, warped or misaligned, or even becomes loose. In these cases the lock must be reinstalled to prevent draughts as well as loss of efficiency. Tasker can repair the faulty lock for you, providing you with peace of mind that your windows are safe from burglars.
The first thing that a Tasker can do to fix your double glazing window lock is to look it over and determine the issue. Once they have all the data they require, they'll get their tools set and then arrive at your home. They will usually bring a Phillips head screwdriver, needle nose pliers, wood glue and fine-grit paper.
If the sash is not aligned properly the Tasker needs to loosen the screws securing each piece of the lock to the frame of the window. The Tasker will then detach the latch and fill in the mounting holes (if appropriate) with wood putty, before sanding the area to ensure that it is identical to the rest of the frame.
If the lock has become rusted, it is cleaned using a wire brush or with oil. It is then lubricated with grease to ensure that it operates smoothly. They'll also determine if the latch is in a good condition and replace it.