A Provocative Rant About Double Glazing Lock Repairs
Double Glazing Lock Repairs
Having quality locks on your doors and windows helps to prevent burglars from accessing your home. They usually don't want breaking glass or trying to squeeze through open windows.
However, some double-glazing owners have had issues with their door or window lock after it was installed. Fortunately, these issues can be fixed without having to buy new double glazing.
Broken or Faulty Locks
If your uPVC door or window lock is damaged or broken and requires a locksmith, they can fix it for you. They can fix the hinges, striker plates and locks on your double-glazed. They can also reposition the cylinder to fix any misalignment that could cause your handle to work properly.
If the key fits into the lock but it won't turn or is difficult to insert, then the mechanism may be locked up. This could be due to dirt or grime getting stuck within the mechanism. If this is the case, then it is possible to clean the lock and lubricate it. It is important to use a dry lubricant, like graphite or teflon instead of oil which attracts dirt and stick to the interior of the mechanism. After you have lubricated the lock, you need to insert the key and try to turn it. The lubricant should make through the mechanism and the lock should be able to rotate without difficulty.
The loose screws inside the lock mechanism are another reason for a broken lock. They may loosen and break off or fall out completely which can stop the lock from functioning properly. These screws can be tightened using a screwdriver, but be cautious not to tighten them too much. This could damage the internal components.
A faulty lock is dangerous for your family and you. This is especially true if you have small children. They could easily open the door without knowing and gain access to your home. If you are worried about this happening, then a locksmith who is vetted can provide fast and efficient assistance to secure your double-glazed doors.
Misty Glaze are a professional uPVC and double glazing business in Lancing, who can repair all types of faulty and damaged mechanisms, handles, cylinders and lock systems on both uPVC windows and doors. We can also alter the locking system on your uPVC windows or double glazing to meet your requirements. This means that replacement doors and/or windows are not always necessary.
Handles that are damaged or broken
As part of their overall security plan, many double-glazed windows have a multipoint lock. This is a great choice for those worried about criminals who are looking to gain entry to your home. It is also a good idea to ask your locksmith about anti-lift blocks, these can be fitted on top of the existing locks and ensure that your window is secured in its closed position.
It's not uncommon for handle locks to get damaged or fail - they are the first part of your window to be pushed open by criminals who want to break into. The good news is, this is one of the easiest parts to repair.
Modern handles made of aluminium and uPVC feature a multi-point locking system called Espagnolette that is designed to withstand forced entry. This security upgrade is available as an option with new uPVC windows. As an alternative upgrade, older uPVC or aluminium handles that are no longer in use can be upgraded to shoot bolt locking systems.
When a handle is faulty it is essential to get the handle repaired as quickly as possible. The damaged handles could stop the window from closing properly and permit a draft to enter. It can also be a flaw that opportunistic thieves could take advantage of, putting your family's belongings and you at risk.
The process of repairing the failed mechanism starts with gaining access to the frame of the window and then removing the damaged handle. The gearbox is then opened to identify the type of gearbox used to open the handle. This will allow to replace the handle 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 since this will provide a more secure fit. The final step is to apply a coating of clear sealant in order to protect the handle from further corrosion. Once that's done, your window will be operational again, and at less than the cost of replacing the entire window.
Broken or damaged hinges
If your windows don't close correctly, draughts may be able to enter, your home's security barriers will become weaker, and there is an increased risk of damp or water damage. Window hinges that break or fail are a common problem and are easily fixed.
If your windows made of uPVC won't open or close it's likely that hinges need to be replaced or repaired. Many window companies will require that you purchase an entirely new window unit to resolve this problem, but we can replace the hinges in order to save you money.
Window hinges are often 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 causing the window to close or open.
Knowing the type of hinge you have will help you identify the right parts to repair it. Common types of window hinges include Maco, Mila, Roto and many other brands. Consult a professional to avoid purchasing parts that won't fit into your existing hardware. This can result in more damage.
A damaged hinge can be a huge problem for your uPVC windows and doors. They can be an important source of noise and can also permit water to get into your windows.
Make sure whether the pin barrels on both hinge halves are aligned. If not, tap the head pin with an hammer to create an arc in the barrel of the hinge. This will keep the pin in position. Ask a second person to hold the door while you remove the hinge screws and hinges from both the doorjamb as well as the door. Replace the hinges with ones of a matching size and install the screws with glue. When the glue is drying, secure the hinges by using weights or clamps.
After you have repaired your hinges, you are able to put the door back in place. You can also reattach the handle. It is a good idea 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
uPVC Windows can become damaged in time, despite the fact they are excellent at keeping out the cold and conserving the heat. This can include broken or damaged glass and faulty locks. If left unattended, this can become a very costly issue. This can also detract from the appearance of your home and can cause a loss of insulation. It is essential to fix any damage as soon as it occurs.
You can repair the crack in your glass yourself if you have the right tools and techniques. Make sure that the area surrounding the glass that has been broken is free of debris to ensure that fragments don't cause injury or trip hazards. Next, remove any pieces of broken glass and dispose of them appropriately. Then, apply masking tape over the entire area to prevent fragments from bouncing around and sticking to your skin when you move them. If repairmywindowsanddoors dealing with a double-paned window it's best to prepare the glass before gluing it back into place so that you know you'll have enough space complete the task.
Use a dry, clean cloth to wipe down the surface of the broken glass and the frame before applying the glue. Follow the instructions for application and curing times that can differ from product to. Based on the angle of the crack, you may need to secure the glass in place during the curing process with lightweight clamps designed to hold delicate materials.
When the adhesive has completely set, carefully place the glass inside the window frame, ensuring it's flush with the edges of the frame and there are no gaps between the glass and the window sash. Be cautious not to flex the window when it's being put back in place, as this can weaken the seal and lead to water infiltration and condensation.
Contact a professional glazier like O'Brien(r) for an appointment to replace your glass if the window has been completely broken. Leaving broken glass unattended can be a risk to children and pets, so it's essential to act fast.