Double Glazing Window Locks Repairs
Double glazing window locks repair is essential to keep your home secure. Insecure hinges and handles can let draughts in your home, making your windows vulnerable to burglars.
Fortunately, you can repair stiff uPVC handles or locks without replacing the door or window. Cooling or oiling the mechanisms will often solve any problems.
Broken Glass
Double glazing window locks may wear out over time. When this happens, the handles could become difficult to open, or even close. This can cause issues with air circulation in the home and could also pose a security risk. To fix this issue, it's essential to get the window repaired in the shortest time possible.
Double-glazed windows are made up of three or two glass panes with a gas in between to provide insulation, and a seal that keeps the panes together. If you see condensation between the glass panes it is likely that one of the seals requires replacement. It is usually necessary to replace only one pane of the window and is a lot less expensive than replacing the entire window.
A blow-up seal in a double glazed window usually results in cloudiness and condensation. This can result from a range of causes, including air leaks, or the presence of moisture in the home. When you first notice the problem, it's important to call a double glazing expert to replace the seal and gas in your double-glazed windows.
It is possible to replace one pane of double glazing glass, however, it is not recommended to do this without the assistance of a professional. It is important to have the right tools and know-how to perform the task safely. If you attempt to do it yourself, it could result in damage to the frame of the window or even to your health.
When a double-glazed windows is stuck, a lot of people use a crowbar in an attempt to open it. However, this usually results in the frame being damaged and scratched. A specialist in window repairs can take the handle from your window and allow it to open without causing further damage. They can also convert old window mechanisms into modern ones.
Window hinges are prone to becoming stiff and difficult to open over time especially when they are in a noisy location. It is essential to regularly lubricate the hinges of your windows with silicone spray. It's also important to avoid shutting the window with a heavy hand or closing it using the handles since this could harm the hinges as well as the lock mechanism.
Broken Sash
This is a common problem for older double-glazed windows. If the upper sash has fallen out of its pocket, it could be difficult to lock it and open the window. This usually happens due to pins being disengaged or a balance shoe is disconnected. Each sash is unique and it is important to know how yours are configured before you attempt to fix it.
It can be resolved by removing the sash and then cleaning it thoroughly. This will also reveal whether the sash remains a good match. If not, add stoppers for the sash to keep it in place. You can purchase them from most hardware stores or online. After cleaning the sash, you can replace the parting beads and lubricate the pulley axles by using Teflon or silicon spray. Label the weights prior to taking them off them to ensure that you are able to reinstall them in the correct way.
A broken handle is another frequent issue. It can be hard to tell if your window handle is broken, but there are some indications. If the handle is rigid or difficult to use or doesn't feel as if it's securely attached to the wall, then it's broken.
It could be due to lack of use, or the handle could be cracked or detached. In some instances the handle could be broken inside and can't be replaced however it's worth attempting to fix it immediately you notice the issue.
To take the window sash off, you may need to take off hinges that attach it to the frame. It's a challenging job, so you'll need someone to help you hold the sash steady. After removing the hinges, it is necessary to clean the surrounding area. Reattaching the hinges an excellent idea. You can test the handle and check if it functions correctly. If it's not, you may want to think about replacing it. This will ensure that your window is as secure as could 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. It is essential to fix any damaged handles as soon as possible to avoid security and function issues.
Fortunately, a window handle is fairly simple to replace. In contrast to a sash, which requires a number of bolts to secure, a window handle is secured using two screws which makes it a straightforward DIY task for anyone with a little of know-how. It is important to test the handle once it's installed to ensure that it is working properly. This should include locking the handle and checking for gaps that might let in drafts or allow opportunistic thieves to access your home.
The most common cause of the broken handle on a window is simply wear and tear from frequent use. A broken handle can be caused by excessive stress or force. If you force windows to open, it could add additional stress to the handle. This increases the likelihood of damage.
Other reasons for a damaged handle could be due to poor maintenance, ageing or design issues. Lack of regular cleaning and lubrication may cause the handle to wear out quickly, and this is often the result of dirt or other debris that accumulates over time. In addition the handle may be damaged due to improper installation and alignment problems.
If the fixes mentioned above do not work If these solutions don't work, the Tasker will require access and remove the lock itself. This could involve removing the window frame or removing the plastic bead and frame (to allow for more room). The new lock can be installed to match the shape of the uPVC handle. The new handle can then be re-attached and the procedure is complete. If this is the situation the Tasker will offer a quote for the repair costs.
A faulty Lock
If window locks are damaged, it's vital to fix the issue as soon as you can. The reason is that a damaged window could cause drafts and weaken security barriers, making the property vulnerable to burglary. Window lock repairs are generally minimal, but it's better to call an expert before the issue gets worse and cost you more money.
UPVC window locks have two different variations: espagnolette handles and the cockspur handles. The first makes use of a central rod that operates the locking cams, which are shaped like mushrooms, that lock into window frame keepers. The cams of the lock are activated by a handle attached to the spindle. The latch of the lock is inserted into the mortise catches on a window frame.
Both types of UPVC window locks are susceptible to deterioration, particularly in older homes. This can occur when the sash is warped, misaligned or even comes loose. In these situations the lock needs to be reinstalled in order to avoid draughts or loss of energy efficiency. A Tasker will replace the faulty locks for you and provide peace of mind knowing that your windows are secure from intruders.
A Tasker will first look at the double glazing of your window to identify the issue. Once they have all the information they need, they will get their tools set and arrive at your house. They'll usually bring a Phillips head screwdriver, needle-nosepliers, wood putty and fine-grit sandpaper.
If the sash is misaligned the Tasker needs to loosen the screws securing both parts of the lock to the window frame. The Tasker will then detach the latch and fill the mounting holes (if applicable) with wood putty before sanding the area to make it flush with the rest.
If the lock is rusted they'll clean it using wire brush or oil and lubricate it by applying grease to keep it running smoothly. They'll also examine the condition of the latch before reinstalling it.