Double Glazing Lock Repairs
Good locks on your doors and windows will help prevent burglars from gaining entry into your home. They aren't likely to break glass or try to get through windows that are open.
However, some double glazing owners have had issues with their door lock or window lock after it's been installed. These issues can usually be fixed without the need for new double glazing.
Broken or faulty locks
A locksmith can repair your uPVC window or door lock if it's broken or faulty. They will be able to repair the striker plates, hinges and locks on your double-glazed. They can also move the cylinder 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 become difficult for you to insert. This could be due to dirt or grime getting stuck in the mechanism. If this is the case it could be possible for the lock to be cleaned and lubricated. Make use of a dry lubricant, like graphite or teflon, not oil, because oil attracts dirt and cause it to stick to the mechanism's inside. After having lubricated, insert the lock key into the lock and turn it. The lubricant will work through the mechanism, and the lock should be able to rotate easily.
Loose screws within the lock mechanism are another reason for a malfunctioning lock. They can become loose and fall out or even break off completely preventing the lock to perform as it should. These screws can be tightened with a screwdriver, but be careful not to over tighten them. This could damage the internal components.
A faulty lock is dangerous for your family and you. This is particularly relevant if you have young children. They can open the door without knowing and gain access to your house. 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 types faulty and broken mechanisms on both uPVC windows and doors. We can also alter your uPVC or double glazing locking system to meet your particular needs, which means that in a lot of cases replacement windows and doors are not necessary.
Handles that are damaged or broken
Many double glazed windows feature a multi-point lock as a part of the overall security package. This is a great choice for those concerned with potential thieves who may try to gain access to your home. It's also worth asking your installer about anti-lift blocks that can be installed on top of the locks already in place and help keep your window firmly locked in the closed position.
Handle locks are usually damaged or fail. They are the first part that criminals will utilize to force open your window. Fortunately, the good news is that this is among the easiest parts to repair.
Modern uPVC handles and aluminum handles come with a multi-point locking mechanism known as Espagnolette which is designed to prevent forced entry. This security upgrade is available as an option with new uPVC windows. As an upgrade option, older style aluminium or uPVC handles that are no longer used can be upgraded to a shoot bolt locking system.
It is important to repair the handle as soon as possible after it has been damaged. A damaged handle could prevent the window from closing properly and allow drafts to get in. It may also be a weak point that burglars with a plethora of opportunities could exploit, therefore putting your belongings and family at risk of being taken.
The process of fixing the failed mechanism starts with gaining access to the frame of the window and then removing the damaged handle. The gearbox can then be accessed to determine the type of gearbox used to open the handle. This allows an alternative that is compatible with the profile and internal window frame mechanisms.
After the mechanism has been replaced, the handle may be returned to the original screws. However, we recommend replacing them with more long screws since they provide an even more secure fit. The final step is to seal the handle using an opaque sealant. This will protect it from further corrosion. After this step is completed your window will be fully functional again at a fraction the cost of replacing it.
Broken or damaged hinges
If your windows do not close properly, you could experience draughts, a weakening of your home's security and a higher risk of water or damp damage. Broken or faulty window hinges are a typical issue and can be repaired easily.
If you have a window made of uPVC that won't close or open it's likely that the hinges are broken or damaged and require replacement. Most window companies will require you to buy an entirely new window unit in order to fix this simple problem, but we can replace the hinges in order to save you money.
Window hinges can be damaged by repeated use or weakened over time by corrosion. If you've got a broken window hinge, it's crucial to take the necessary precautions to prevent further damage. This includes not forcing the window to close or open.
Identifying double glazing repairs will help you locate the correct parts to fix it. Maco, Mila and Roto are all brands of window hinges. It is recommended to speak with an expert in this situation to ensure that you don't make the mistake of buying parts that are not compatible with your current hardware and could cause further damage.
A faulty hinge is a major issue for uPVC doors and windows. They can be a significant source of noise and also allow water to infiltrate that can cause damage to your windows.
Make sure whether the pin barrels on both sides of the hinge are aligned. If it's not, tap the headpin with a hammer in order to make an incline 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 hinges and hinges from both the doorjamb as well as the door. Replace the hinges and install screws with glue. When the glue is drying, secure the hinges with clamps or weights.
After your hinges have been repaired, you should be able to install the door and then reattach the handle. Replace the screws with wooden dowels of the same length as the screw that was used to ensure that they match.
Glass that is Broken or is damaged
uPVC Windows can become damaged over time, even though they are great at keeping out the cold and keeping the heat. This can include broken or damaged glass as well as defective locks. This issue can be costly should it be left unattended. This can also detract from your home's aesthetics and result in a decrease in insulation. It is crucial to fix any damage as soon as it occurs.
You can repair your cracked glass yourself if you have the appropriate tools and techniques. Make sure the area surrounding the broken glass is free of debris, so that shards do not cause injury or trip hazards. Then, take any pieces of broken glass and dispose of them appropriately. Then, place masking tape to the entire area to prevent pieces of glass from scattering and sticking to your skin when you move them. If you're dealing with a double-pane window it's a good idea to fit the glass pane before gluing it back in place to ensure that you'll have enough space finish the project.
Before applying the glue clean the entire surface of the broken frame and glass with a a dry, clean cloth. Follow the curing and application directions, which may vary from product to product. You may have to clamp the cracked glass with lightweight clamps designed to support fragile materials, based on the angle.
After the adhesive has completely cure, carefully insert the glass in the window frame. Make sure that it is in line with the frame edge and that there aren't gaps between the glass sash and the frame. Avoid bending the glass as you put it back in place, as this could weaken the seal. This could result in water infiltration or condensation.
If you have a glass window that is completely shattered or has larger cracks, consult an experienced professional glazier such as O'Brien(r) to organise an exchange. Unattended handling of broken glass can cause danger to children and pets and is why it's important to act quickly.