Double Glazing Lock Repairs The best locks for your doors and windows will help prevent burglars from gaining entry into your home. They don't usually like to break glass or attempt to squeeze through open windows. However, some double-glazing owners have experienced issues with their door lock or window lock after it's been installed. Fortunately, these issues can be fixed without having to buy new double glazing. Broken or Faulty Locks A locksmith can fix your uPVC window or door lock if it's broken or faulty. They will be able to fix the hinges, striker plates and locks on your double glazing. They can also reposition the cylinder to fix any misalignment problems that could be causing the handle to not function properly. If the key fits into the lock but it won't turn or is difficult to insert, the mechanism could be stuck. This could be due to grime or dirt getting stuck within the mechanism. If this is the case, it is possible to clean the lock and then lubricate. It is important to make use of a dry lubricant like graphite or teflon, rather than oil, which attracts dirt and adhere to the inside of the mechanism. After lubricating, insert the key into the lock and turn it. The lubricant should be absorbed into the mechanism and the lock should spin effortlessly. A faulty lock can also be caused by loose screws in the mechanism of the lock. They may loosen and fall out or break off completely which can stop the lock from working correctly. A screwdriver is a tool to tighten these screws, however, care must be taken not to over-tighten them as this can cause damage to internal components. A damaged lock can be dangerous for you and your family. This is especially the case if you have children. They can open the door without knowing and gain access to your house. If you're worried that this might occur, a licensed professional locksmith can assist you secure the double-glazed doors. Misty Glaze are a professional uPVC and double glazing company based in Lancing, who can repair all types of faulty and damaged mechanisms, handles, cylinders and lock systems on uPVC windows and doors. We can also modify your uPVC or double glazing locking system to meet your specific requirements, meaning that in a lot of cases replacement windows and doors are not required. Broken or Faulty Handles As part of their overall security plan, many double-glazed windows come with a multipoint lock. This is an excellent option for those who are worried about potential burglars trying to gain entry to their home. Ask your locksmith for antilift locks. These can be installed in addition to existing locks and aid in keeping your windows closed. Handle locks are usually damaged or fail. They are the first part that a criminal will employ to open your window. The good news is, this is one of easiest parts to fix. Modern uPVC handles and aluminium handles come with the multi-point locking mechanism referred to as Espagnolette that is designed to ward off forced entry. This upgrade to security is typically offered as an optional extra on new uPVC window installation. Older uPVC and aluminium handles can be upgraded to lock bolts that shoot, again as an optional feature on all new double-glazed window installations. It is essential to fix handles as quickly as you can if it's damaged. The damaged handles could stop the window from closing properly and permit a draft to enter. It may be a weakness that burglars who are opportunistic could exploit, putting your family and belongings at risk of theft. The process of repairing the damaged mechanism begins with getting access to the frame of the window and then removing the damaged handle. The gearbox can then be accessed to determine the kind of gearbox that is used to open the handle. This will allow to replace the handle that matches the profile and internal window frame mechanisms. After the mechanism has been replaced, the handle may be put back together using the original screws. We recommend replacing them with longer screws to ensure a more secure fit. The final stage is to apply a layer of clear sealant in order to protect the handle from further corrosion. Once that's done, your window will be fully operational again, and at only a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window. Hinges that are broken or Faulty If your windows do not close properly, draughts can get in, your home's security measures will be compromised and you run the risk of water damage or damp. Broken or defective window hinges are a common issue and can be repaired easily. If you have a window made of uPVC that won't open or close it's likely that the hinges are damaged or broken and require replacement. A lot of window manufacturers will require you to purchase an entirely new window unit to fix this simple issue, but we can replace the hinges and save you money. Window hinges can be damaged through repeated use, or weakened over time by corrosion. If you have a broken window hinge, it's important to take precautions to prevent further damage. This includes not causing the window to close or open. Identifying your hinge type will help you locate the correct parts to fix it. Maco, Mila and Roto are all brands of window hinges. Talk to a professional before purchasing parts that won't fit into your existing hardware. This can cause further damage. The hinges that are not working properly can be a huge issue for uPVC windows and doors. They can be a significant source of noise, and they can also allow for water infiltration that can cause damage to your windows. To fix this issue, first make sure that the pin barrel on both sides of the hinge is aligned. If not, tap double glazing repairs near me with the hammer to create an incline in the hinge barrel. This will hold the pin in position. A friend can help you hold the doors while you take out hinge screws and hinges. Replace the hinges with ones that are the same size and install the screws with glue. Finally, secure the hinges with clamps or weights while the glue is drying. After you have fixed the hinges, you can put the door back in place. You can also reattach the handle. Replace the screws with wooden dowels of the same size as the original screw to ensure that they match. Glass that is Broken or damaged While uPVC windows do an excellent job of keeping the cold out and warm in, they can become damaged over time. This could include broken or damaged glass as well as defective locks. If neglected, this could be a costly problem. It can also affect the appearance of your home and could lead to a loss of insulation, so it's important to repair any damage as soon as you can. You can fix your cracked glass yourself if you have the right tools and techniques. First, make sure the area around the glass is clear to ensure that any shards do not harm anyone and aren't an accident hazard. Then, remove all broken glass pieces and dispose of them in a appropriate way. Apply masking tape over the entire area. This will stop glass fragments from sticking to your skin and scattering when you move them. Making sure the glass pane is fitted prior to applying glue is a good idea in the case of a window that has two panes. This will ensure that you have enough space to finish your project. Before applying the glue, wipe the surface of the damaged frame and the glass with an unclean, dry cloth. Follow the curing and application directions that may differ from product to product. Based on the angle of the crack, you may need to secure the glass to hold it in place during curing. This can be done using lightweight clamps that are designed to hold fragile materials. After the adhesive has completely cure, carefully insert the glass inside the window frame. Make sure it is flush with the frame edge and that there aren't gaps between the glass sash and frame. Be careful not to bend the glass when you install it again in order to weaken the seal. This can lead to condensation or water infiltration. Get in touch with a professional glazier, such as O'Brien(r) for an exchange if your glass window has been completely broken. If you leave broken glass unattended, it could be a risk to pets and children, so it's essential to act swiftly.
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