Double Glazing Window Lock Repair
Double-glazed windows are energy efficient and provide comfort throughout the year. However, there are problems that can arise.
If a window is hard to open, it can let in valuable heat and cold from your home. It also weakens the security barriers in your home. Luckily, this can be fixed. Continue reading to learn more about how to repair upvc locks.
Stiffness
If you notice that your uPVC window handles are spongy or have a difficult time locking, it could be down to the lack of lubrication. When you leave your windows and doors open for prolonged durations of time causes dust and grit to accumulate and the mechanism inside the handle will begin to wear. The handle will then become difficult to turn, which will force you to apply more pressure to open or close your window. This process continues until the lock or handle mechanism eventually fails.
It's worth contacting the original retailer in case this occurs. They usually provide a warranty of up to 10 years and will pay for replacing the hardware. But, you could also try to fix the problem yourself by making sure that the hinges and locks are lubricated with a silicone spray. This is a simple fix that should only take a couple of minutes and can be done every year to ensure your windows remain in good working order.
This is especially important if you live near a road, as the dust and grit can cause damage to your hinges over time. To achieve this, open your window wide. Then, use an screwdriver on the left side of the frame to loosen the screws. Once the screws are loosened, you can move the handle away from the frame. If you feel that the sash is beginning to rub against the frame, loosen the friction screw on that side to ease it down. Repeat this procedure on the right side of the frame. If needed, move the handle slightly up.
There should be a gap now of about 1 The sash should sit 4 inches away from the frame. This will allow your window to seal and close properly, preventing unwanted drafts from entering your home and also reducing your energy bill. A window or door that is draughty can also weaken your home's security and increase the risk of burglary. A double-glazed window that won't shut correctly can allow heat to escape, causing dampness and condensation in your home.
Cracking/Blowing
Double-glazed windows can help you save money on energy and increase the security of your home. Like any other equipment, they may need to be repaired or replaced. This is why it's so important to have a trusted professional who can complete the work. Checkatrade can assist in this area by connecting you with local tradespeople who have been verified and screened to ensure their quality of work is exceptional. It is also recommended to employ a professional who is certified, as they can be insured should any damage occur during the job.
You can use our search tool to find an FENSA certified double glazing installer in your region. We will then connect you with reputable companies. You can also visit the website of a company that is FENSA-approved and contact directly to discuss your needs. In addition you will find information about the services they offer and any special offers that may be available to you.
Over time, the window seal could break or become damaged which can lead to air and moisture leakage between the two panes of glass. This can cause cloudy or misty appearance in the middle of the window unit. This is caused by the failure of the sealant. This can often be resolved by replacing the glass unit.
Double panes that are broken can cause a major problem for your home. You'll want to have them fixed as quickly as you can. This is typically a straightforward task for a double-glazing technician or joiner who has years of experience. In certain instances, the repair may be done by you.
Double Glazed Windows which do not close properly can cause drafts, allow valuable heat escape and weaken the security of your home. They may also lead to damp or water damage when left unattended. Contact a double-glazing professional immediately if your uPVC windows are having issues. This will help to ensure that the problem doesn't worsen and will save you money in the long term.
Condensation
If you notice condensation appearing on the outside of your windows, it can be a bit disconcerting, but do not worry, it's not an indication that your double glazing isn't operating properly. This isn't a negative thing, but it is a normal occurrence. It means that your home has good air circulation and can hold heat. This is more frequent early in the morning, or at night, when temperatures are lower and there is less air.
If double glazing repairs develops between the glass panes this is a more serious issue and could suggest that your window seal has failed. This is because the seal no longer holds the gas that is used to insulate the window panes, so this moisture becomes trapped and leads to condensation. In this situation you will have to speak with the company that installed your double glazing as they are likely still under warranty and it is not recommended that you alter the units or attempt to fix them yourself since it could invalidate your warranty.
This issue can be solved by removing the sealed unit and replacing it with a brand new one. This is a task that should always be performed by a professional because you'll need to make sure that the new sealed unit fits perfectly and there are no gaps or leaks.
A gap in the window of your uPVC home is often difficult to spot and, often, it is only evident when you attempt to close your window or door. However, if you notice that you can easily fit an article of paper in the gap then this could be due to a misalignment or a dropped hinge and could indicate that your window is in need of replacement.
Glass Unit Replacement
Over time, double glazed windows can become stiff and the handles may not open. They may also develop a layer of condensation between the glass panes which can cause drafty air within your home. It may be tempting to just replace the window, but this could be costly and time-consuming.
The good news is that a few simple steps can help you repair your double-glazed windows and restore their functionality and aesthetic. You'll need some tools to do this.
A pry bar will be needed to remove the frame from the sill. Then employing a hacksaw or utility knife, cut the sealant that holds the IGU in place. Based on the condition of your windows, they might be held by an insulated metal stop (Photos 3 and 4), which is caulked-in and extremely difficult to cut through. In these instances, it is best to contact a professional.
Once you've removed your old window, you can install the new unit by removing the wedge gasket and moving on to the next frame. Make sure to use silicone sealant, which will form an airtight and watertight seal between the new window and the frames.
Finally, you'll need install the new handle and then put on any caps made of plastic that you have on the screws. It is best to employ a professional if you are not comfortable with broken glass. This will ensure your safety and minimize the risk of injury to yourself working with broken glass.
Double glazed sealed units are designed to last for a period of up to 35 years, however over time they can experience several issues. These include a decline in energy efficiency, the buildup of condensation between the glasses and chips or cracks on the glass. The window seal might have been blown. This can be detected by fogging, streaking and condensation between the glass panes. Blown windows can be repaired by re-installing the sealant which is a less expensive alternative to buying and installing a new double glazing window.