Double Glazing Window Locks Repairs Repairing double glazing window locks is vital to keeping your home safe. Insecure hinges and handles can allow drafts to enter your home, leaving your windows vulnerable to burglars. Thankfully, it's easy to repair stiff uPVC locks and handles without replacing your door or window. Often, simply cooling or lubricating the mechanisms can help solve any problems. Broken Glass Over time, double-glazing window locks can wear down. The handles may become difficult to open or close. This can cause issues with ventilation and can also pose a security threat. It is essential to get the window repaired as quickly as you can. Double-glazed windows consist of two or more glass panes, with gas in between to provide insulation. Seals also hold the panes together. Having condensation in between the glass panes is usually a sign that there is an issue with one of these seals, which needs to be replaced. This will typically involve replacing just the one window pane and is a lot less expensive than replacing the entire window. A blown seal in windows with double glazing usually results in cloudiness and condensation. This could be due to various causes, including air leaks or excessive moisture in the house. If you spot the issue, you need to call a double glazing expert to replace the seal and gas in your double-glazed windows. It is possible to replace a single pane of double glazing glass however, it is not advised to do so without the assistance of a professional. This is because it requires specialized tools and expertise to do the job safely. You could damage the window frame or even your health if you attempt to do it yourself. If a double-glazed window gets stuck, many people use a crowbar in an attempt to open it. However, this usually results in the frame being damaged and swollen. A window specialist will be able to take off the handle and open the window without causing damage. They can also transform old window mechanisms into new style modern mechanisms. Over time, window hinges get stiffer and more difficult to open, especially when the area is noisy. It's important to regularly lubricate your window hinges with silicone spray. Be careful not to close the window using the handles or by closing it too tightly. This can damage the hinges. Broken Sash This is a typical problem with older double-glazed windows. It can be difficult to lock and open a windows if the upper sash has fallen out of its pocket. This usually happens because the pins have disengaged, or a balance shoe is been disconnected. Each sash is different and it is important to understand how yours is configured before you attempt to fix this. The best method to resolve this issue is to take off the sash, and then clean it thoroughly. This will also show whether the sash remains an appropriate match. If not, you can add stoppers for sash to hold it in place. They are available on the internet or at many hardware stores. After cleaning the sash you can replace the parting bead and lubricate the pulley axles with Teflon or silicon spray. It's a good idea to label the weights prior to when you remove them to make sure you can return them correctly. Another issue that is frequently encountered is a damaged handle. Window handles can be difficult to detect however there are a few obvious signs that indicate the handle you have is broken. If the handle feels difficult to use or feels clunky or doesn't feel as if it's securely attached to the frame, then it's broken. It could be due to a lack of use, or the handle could have cracked or detached. In some instances the handle may be damaged inside and unable to be replaced however it's worth attempting to fix it when you spot the problem. To remove the window sash it is possible to remove hinges that secure it to the frame. It can be a difficult job, so you'll need someone to help you hold the sash in place. After removing the hinges it is necessary to clean the space around them. It is also recommended to reattach the hinges and test the handle to be sure it's functioning properly. If it's not working, you may want to consider replacing it. This will make your window as secure as is possible. Broken Handle It's not uncommon for a window handle to break or deteriorate over time. As such, it's essential that any broken handles are repaired as quickly as you can to avoid loss of functionality and security issues. It is, however, not difficult to change a window handle. The window handle can be replaced by anyone with some DIY skills. In contrast to the sash, which is secured with multiple bolts, the window handle requires only one or two screws. Once the new handle has been put in place, it's crucial to test it in order to ensure the mechanisms are operating properly. This includes locking the handle and examining for gaps that could let in drafts or allow criminals to gain access to your home. The most frequent cause of broken handles on a window is wear and tear from frequent use. However, excessive stress or force can result in broken handles. If you force a window to open, it could add additional stress to the handle. This increases the chance of injury. Other reasons for a broken hand include inadequate maintenance, aging or design issues. The handle may break quickly due to the absence of regular cleaning and oiling. This is typically caused by dirt or other debris that have accumulated over time. In addition the handle could be damaged due to improper installation and alignment issues. If the fixes mentioned above aren't working, the Tasker will need to gain access and remove the lock itself. This could mean removing the frame, or 'breaking out' the existing window frame and bead made of plastic (to give the Tasker more room to maneuver). A new lock can be fitted that is a similar profile to your existing uPVC handle. After that, the new handle can be put back on and the procedure is completed. If this is the case then the Tasker will offer a quote for repair costs. Faulty Lock When window locks become damaged, it's crucial to fix the issue as soon as possible. A damaged window could cause the door to open, causing draughts and expose your home to burglary. Window lock repairs are usually minimal, but it's better to consult a professional before the problem gets worse and costs you more money. UPVC window handles come in two different styles including cockspur handles as well as espagnolette handles. double glazing repair utilizes an internal rod to operate mushroom shaped locking cams which lock into window frame keepers. The cams of the lock are activated by a handle that is connected to the spindle. The latch of the lock is inserted into the mortise catches on a window frame. Both types of UPVC window locks are susceptible to damage, particularly in older homes. This could happen when the sash becomes warped, misaligned or even comes loose. In these instances, the lock must be replaced to prevent draughts or loss of energy efficiency. Tasker can repair the faulty lock for you, leaving you with security of knowing that your windows are secure from intruders. A Tasker will first examine your double-glazed window and determine the issue. Once they have the necessary information, they'll make their tools prior to arriving at your home. They'll usually bring a Phillips-head screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, wood putty and fine-grit sandpaper. Tasker will have to loosen the screws that hold both locks to the window frame if the sash has been misaligned. Then, they'll remove the latch and fill the mounting holes with wood putty (if applicable) and sand the area until it's flush with the frame of the window. If the lock has become rusted it will be cleaned with a wire brush or with oil. It will then be lubricated with grease to ensure it functions smoothly. They'll also make sure that the latch is in a good condition and re-install it.
double glazing repair
