Double Glazing Lock Repairs
A good quality lock on your doors and windows can stop burglars from getting into your home. In general, they don't enjoy breaking glass or trying to wiggle through windows that are open.
Some owners of double glazing, however, have had issues with their door or window lock following the installation. Fortunately, these issues are often fixable without having to purchase new double glazing.
Broken or faulty locks
A locksmith can repair your uPVC window lock or door lock if damaged or broken. They can repair hinges, striker plates and locks for double-glazing. They can also reposition the cylinder to fix any misalignment problems that may be causing your handle to not operate properly.
The mechanism could be seized if the key fits in the lock, but it will not turn or become difficult for you to insert. This can be due to dirt or grime getting stuck within the mechanism. If this is the case, then it might be possible to clean the lock and then lubricate. Make use of a dry lubricant, like graphite or teflon, not oil, because oil can attract dirt and cause it to stick to the inside mechanism. After the lubrication, insert the key into the lock and turn it. The lubricant should work through the mechanism, and the lock should be able to rotate without difficulty.
Loose screws within the lock mechanism can be another cause of a faulty lock. They can loosen, fall out, or even break completely, preventing the lock from being able to function properly. A screwdriver is a tool to tighten these screws, but care must be taken not to over-tighten them because this could cause damage to internal components.
A damaged lock can be dangerous for you and your family. This is especially true if you have small children. It's possible for them to unlock the door without your knowledge and allow them access to your home. If you're concerned about this happening, then a licensed locksmith can offer rapid and effective service to secure your double-glazed doors.
double glazing repair is a professional uPVC company in Lancing that can repair all kinds of defective and broken mechanisms on both uPVC windows and doors. We can also alter the locking system of your uPVC windows or double glazing to meet your requirements. This means that replacement doors and/or windows are not always necessary.
Broken or Faulty Handles
Many double glazed windows feature the multi-point lock as part of the overall security package. This is an excellent option for those who are concerned about opportunistic thieves looking for ways to gain access to your home. It's also worth asking your locksmith about anti-lift blocks, these can be fitted in addition to the existing locks and will keep your window locked in a closed position.
Handle locks can be damaged or fail. They are the first component that criminals utilize to force open your window. Fortunately, the good news is that this is among the easiest parts to repair.
Modern handles made of aluminium and uPVC operate a multi-point locking system known as Espagnolette that is designed to withstand forced entry. This security upgrade is often available as an extra on new uPVC window installation. Older style uPVC and aluminium handles can be upgraded to lock bolts that shoot, again as an optional option on double-glazed windows.
If a handle is defective, it's crucial to get it repaired as quickly as you can. A damaged handle could prevent the window from closing properly and allow drafts to get in. It could be a weakness that burglars with a plethora of opportunities could exploit, putting your family and belongings at risk of theft.
The process of fixing the malfunctioning mechanism begins by gaining access to the window frame and removing the damaged handle. The gearbox is then accessed to determine the kind of gearbox that is used to open the handle. This will allow a replacement that matches the profile and internal window frame mechanisms.
Once the mechanism has been replaced the handle can then be re-affixed using the original screws - however, we generally recommend replacing them with longer ones since this will provide the most secure fit. The final step is to seal the handle using an opaque sealant. This will shield it from further deterioration. After that, your window will be fully operational again, and at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window.
Hinges that are Broken or Faulty
If your windows aren't shut correctly, draughts may be able to enter, your home's security barriers will become weaker and there's an increased risk of water damage or damp. Window hinges that fail or fail to function properly are a common occurrence and can be easily repaired.
If your uPVC windows won't close or open and close, it's likely the hinges require to be repaired or replaced. Most window companies will require that you purchase an entirely new window unit to fix this simple issue, but we are able to replace the hinges and save you money.
Window hinges are often damaged after repeated use, or they may be weakened by corrosion over time. If you find a broken hinge, it is important to take steps to prevent further damage by taking care not to make the window swing open or closed.
You can find the right parts for your hinge by identifying its type. Maco, Mila and Roto are all brands of window hinges. It is recommended to speak with a professional in this case to ensure that you don't make the mistake of purchasing parts that are not compatible with your current hardware and cause further damage.
Faulty hinges are a major issue for uPVC windows and doors. They can be a significant source of noise and can also allow water infiltration which could damage your windows.
To resolve this issue, first make sure whether the pin barrel on both hinge halves is aligned. If it isn't tapping the headpin, use a hammer in order to make a slight bend in hinge barrel. This will hold the pin in position. Have a person hold the doors while you remove hinge screws and hinges. Replace the hinges with ones that are the same size and attach the screws using glue. Finally, while the glue is drying, fix the hinges using weights or clamps.
Once your hinges are repaired after which you will be able to re-install the door and then reattach the handle. Replace the screws with wood dowels of the same length as the screw that was used to ensure that they are compatible.
Broken or damaged glass
uPVC Windows can become damaged in time, despite the fact they are great at keeping out the cold and conserving heat. This could include broken or damaged glass as well as defective locks. If not taken care of, it can be a costly problem. It also can detract from the aesthetics of your house and may lead to a loss of insulation, which is why it is essential to fix any damage as soon as possible.
If the glass is broken but isn't shattered, you can usually fix it yourself with the proper tools and techniques. Be sure that the area surrounding the glass that has been broken is free of debris so that any fragments don't cause injury or cause a trip hazard. Then, remove all broken glass pieces and dispose of them in a proper way. Then, put masking tape over the entire area to prevent fragments from bouncing around and sticking to your skin when you move them. If you're dealing with a double-paned window it's a good idea to prepare the glass before glueing it back in place to ensure that you'll have enough space complete the project.
Use a clean, dry cloth to clean the glass's surface and the frame before applying the glue. Follow the curing and application instructions that differ from product to product. You may have to clamp the cracked glass with clamps made of lightweight materials designed to support fragile materials, based on the angle.
After the adhesive has fully cured, carefully reinstall the glass inside the window frame, making sure it's flush with the edge of the frame, and there aren't any gaps between the glass and the window sash. Avoid flexing the glass as you install it again because this could weaken the seal. This could result in condensation or water infiltration.
If you have a glass window that's completely broken or has larger cracks, consult a professional glazier like O'Brien(r) to arrange a replacement. Unattended handling of broken glass can be a risk to pets and children It's therefore essential to act quickly.