Double Glazing Lock Repairs Good locks on your windows and doors will help prevent burglars from getting into your home. They generally don't like breaking glass or squeezing through windows that are open. However, some double glazing owners have experienced issues with their door lock or window lock after it's been installed. Fortunately, these issues are often fixable without having to purchase new double glazing. Broken or damaged locks If your uPVC door or window lock is damaged or defective, then a locksmith can fix it for you. They can fix the hinges, striker plates and locks on your double glazing. They can also reposition the cylinder in order to fix any misalignment which could cause your handle to operate correctly. The mechanism could be seized when the key fits into the lock, but it does not turn or is difficult to insert. The dirt or grease could get stuck in the mechanism. If this is the case it is 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 inside mechanism. After lubricating the lock you need to insert the key and then try to turn it. The lubricant should work its way through the mechanism, and the lock should be able to rotate easily. A damaged lock can be caused by loose screws within the mechanism of the lock. They can loosen and fall out or break completely, preventing the lock from working correctly. These screws can be tightened by using the help of a screwdriver. However, be careful not to over tighten them. This can damage the internal components. A broken lock can be hazardous for your family and you. This is especially the case if you have children. They can open the door without knowing which gives them access to your home. If you are worried about this happening, then a licensed locksmith can offer fast and efficient assistance to re-secure your double glazing doors. Misty Glaze are a professional uPVC and double glazing company based in Lancing that can fix any type of defective and broken mechanisms, handles, cylinders and lock systems on uPVC windows and doors. double glazing repair can also modify your uPVC or double glazing locking system to meet your particular requirements, meaning that in most cases, replacement doors and windows are not necessary. Handles that are damaged or damaged Many double-glazed windows have a multi-point lock as part of the overall security package. This is an excellent option for those who are concerned about opportunistic burglars trying to gain entry into their home. It's also worth asking your installer about anti-lift locks, these can be fitted on top of the locks already in place and ensure that your window is locked in the closed position. It's not uncommon for the handle locks to become damaged or fail - they are the first part of your window to be pushed open by criminals intent on breaking into. The good news is, this is one of the easiest parts to fix. Modern uPVC handles and aluminium handles come with the multi-point locking mechanism referred to as Espagnolette which is designed to ward off forced entry. This security upgrade is available as an option with new uPVC windows. As an optional upgrade older style handles made of aluminium or uPVC that are no longer in use can be upgraded to shoot bolt locking systems. When a handle is faulty it's important to get this repaired as quickly as you can. A damaged handle could prevent the window from closing properly and permit drafts to get in. It may also be a weakness that burglars with a plethora of opportunities might exploit, placing your home and belongings at risk of being stolen. To repair the damaged mechanism, you first need to access the window frame, then take off the broken handle. The gearbox can then be accessed to determine the type of gearbox used to open the handle. This will permit to replace the handle that matches the profile and the internal window frame mechanisms. After the mechanism has been repaired, the handle may be returned to the original screws. However, we suggest replacing them with more long screws as they will provide the most secure fit. The final step is to seal the handle with an opaque sealant. This will help protect it from further corrosion. Once that's done your window will be functional again, and at only a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window. Hinges that are Broken or damaged If your windows aren't shut correctly, draughts may be able to enter, your home's security barriers will weaken and there's an increased risk of damp or water damage. Broken or defective window hinges are a frequent issue that can be fixed easily. If you have a uPVC window that won't close or open and close, it's likely that your hinges are broken or damaged and require replacement. While a lot of window companies require you to purchase a whole new window unit to solve this issue, we're able to replace the hinges that are damaged and save you money. Window hinges are usually damaged through repeated use, or weakening over time due to corrosion. If you've broken a window hinge, it's important to take precautions to avoid further damage. This includes not causing the window to close or open. You can find the correct parts for your hinge by identifying its model. Common kinds of window hinges include Maco, Mila, Roto and many other brands. It's best to consult a professional in this case so that you don't make the mistake of purchasing parts that aren't compatible with your current hardware and cause further damage. A damaged hinge can be a major issue for your uPVC windows and doors. They can be a significant source of noise and also allow water to infiltrate which can damage your windows. Check whether the pin barrels on both sides of the hinge are aligned. If it isn't then tap the head pin with an hammer to create a small bend in the barrel of the hinge. This will help keep the pin in place. A friend can help you hold the doors while you remove hinge screws and hinges. Replace the hinges and then install screws using glue. When the glue is drying, put a secure hold on the hinges by using clamps or weights. Once your hinges are repaired after which you will be able to re-install the door and attach the handle. Replace the screws with wooden dowels of the same length as the original screw to ensure that they are compatible. Glass that is Broken or is damaged uPVC Windows can be damaged in time, despite the fact they are great at keeping out the cold and retaining warmth. This can include broken or damaged glass as well as defective locks. If neglected, this could turn into a major expense. It can also detract from the aesthetics of your house and could lead to a loss of insulation, so it is essential to fix any damage as quickly as possible. You can repair your cracked glass by yourself if you have the proper tools and techniques. Be sure that the area surrounding the glass that has been broken is free of debris so that any pieces of glass do not cause injuries or trip hazards. Remove any broken glass pieces and dispose of them in a appropriate way. Apply masking tape to the entire area. This will prevent glass shards from sticking to your skin and splintering when you move them. If you're dealing with a double-pane window it's a good idea fit the glass pane before gluing it back into place so that you know you'll have enough space to complete the task. Before applying the glue wipe the entire surface of the broken frame and glass with a a dry, clean cloth. Follow the application and curing instructions that differ from product to product. You may need to clamp the cracked glass using clamps that are lightweight and designed to hold fragile materials, based on the angle. Once the adhesive is fully set, carefully place the glass in the window frame, making sure 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 cause water infiltration and condensation. If you have a glass window that's completely broken or has larger cracks, contact an experienced professional glazier such as O'Brien(r) to organise an exchange. It's crucial to act fast when you notice broken glass.
double glazing repair
