Double Glazing Window Lock Repair
Double-glazed windows are energy-efficient and offer comfort all year round. But problems can occur.
If a window is hard to open, this can let in valuable heat and cold from your home. This could also affect the security of your home. This is usually a simple fix. Read on to find out more about upvc window lock repair.
Stiffness
If you find your uPVC window handles are spongy or have difficulty locking, it could be due to a the lack of lubrication. If you keep your windows and doors opened for long periods, dust and grit will build up and wear out the mechanism in the handle. The handle becomes difficult to turn, which will force you to apply more pressure to unlock or open your window. This process continues until the locking mechanism or the handle eventually fail.
If this occurs to you, consider contacting the company you bought from. They typically provide a warranty of up to 10 year and will pay for replacing the hardware. However, you can also attempt to fix the issue yourself by lubricating the hinges and locks using a silicone spray. This is a simple fix that should only take about a minute and can be completed once per year to ensure your windows remain in good condition.
This is particularly important if you live near a road, as the grit and dust can cause damage to the hinges over time. To accomplish this, you must open your window wide. Then use a screwdriver located on the left side of the frame to loosen the screws. Once the screws have been loosen and the handle is positioned, you can remove 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 towards. Repeat this step for the right side of the frame, moving the handle slightly upwards when necessary.
You should have a gap of approximately 1 The sash should be at least 4 inches from the frame. This will allow the window close and seal correctly, preventing unwanted draughts from entering your home and also reducing energy bills. A draughty door or window can also weaken your home security and increase the risk of burglary. Double-glazed windows that do not shut properly allow heat to escape. This can cause condensation and dampness.
Cracking/Blowing
Double-glazed windows can help you save money on energy bills and improve the security of your home. However, like all other pieces of equipment, they may be damaged and require repair or replacement. This is why it's so crucial to choose a reliable professional to carry out the task. Checkatrade can assist you in this area by connecting you with local tradespeople who have been certified and vetted to ensure that the quality of their work is top-quality. It is also recommended to hire a professional who is certified, as they can be covered by insurance in the event of any damage that occurs during the course of work.
You can use our search tool to locate an FENSA certified double glazing installer in your area. We will then connect you to trustworthy companies. Alternatively, you can visit the website of a specific approved FENSA company and contact them directly to discuss your requirements. In addition to this you will find information about the services they offer and any special offers that may be available to you.
Over time, the window seal may break or weaken that can result in air and moisture leakage between the two panes of glass. This can cause misting or a cloudy look in the centre of the window unit. This is due to the degeneration of the sealant, and is often resolved by replacing the glass unit.
A broken double pane could cause a lot of trouble for your home, and you'll want to have it repaired as soon as you can. It's usually a simple task for a double-glazing expert or joiner who has experience. In some cases, the repair may be possible by you.
Double Glazed Windows that don't close properly can create drafts, allow valuable heat to escape and weaken the security of your home. They may also lead to water damage or damp if left unattended. If you're having issues with your uPVC double-glazed windows, contact an expert in double-glazing as soon as possible. This will help to ensure that the issue doesn't worsen and can save you money in the long run.
Condensation
It can be a bit disconcerting to observe condensation on the exterior of windows, but this is not a sign that double glazing isn't working correctly. It's actually an everyday occurrence that is actually a positive thing because it means that your house is well-ventilated and able to retain the heat. This is more common early in the morning, or at night, when temperatures are lower and there is less air.
If condensation develops between glass panes, it is a more serious problem. It could indicate that the window seal has failed. This is because the seal no longer holds in the gas that acts as an insulator between the window panes, which means the moisture is trapped and leads to condensation. It is necessary to contact the company who installed your double glazing. They're likely to be covered by warranty. It is not advised to alter or repair the units yourself, as this could void your warranty.
This issue can be fixed by getting rid of the sealed unit and replacing it with a new one. This task should be handled by a professional as you'll need to ensure that the new sealed unit fits properly and that there are no gaps.
A gap in the window of your uPVC home can be quite difficult to spot and, often, it is only evident when you attempt to close your door or window. However, if you find that you are able to easily fit the paper piece into the gap, it could be due to an unbalanced hinge or a misaligned one and could be a sign that your window requires replacement.
Glass Unit Replacement
Over time, double glazed windows may become stiff and the handles might not open. They can also form an accumulation of condensation between the glass panes, which can cause drafty air within your home. It is tempting to replace the window, but this can be time-consuming and expensive.
The good news is that a few easy steps can help you fix your double-glazed windows and restore their functionality and aesthetic. You'll require some tools to complete this.
A pry bar will be required to remove the frame from the sill. Then using a hacksaw or utility knife, cut the sealant that holds the IGU in place. Based on the condition of your windows, they may be held by an insulated metal stop (Photos 3 and 4) that is caulked in and very difficult to cut through. In these instances it's recommended to contact a professional.
Once you've removed the old window, you can put in the replacement unit by taking off the wedge gasket, and moving to the next frame. Apply silicone sealant to create an airtight and watertight seal between your new window and the frames.
Lastly, you'll need to install the new handle and then put on any plastic caps you had on the screws. If you're not comfortable working with broken glass, it's recommended you hire a professional for this phase of the process. This will keep you safer and decrease the chance of injury when working with broken glasses.
Double glazed sealed units are made to last up to 35 years, but over time they can experience various problems. These problems can include a loss of energy efficiency, a build-up of condensation between the glass, as well as cracks or chips in the glass. It is also possible that the window seal has blown'. Clacton-on-Sea double glazing can be spotted by streaking, fogging and condensation between the glass panes. The sealant can be replaced to repair blown windows. This is a cheaper option than buying and installing new double glazing windows.