When a double-glazed windows will not close, it creates draughts that allow valuable heat to escape. It also weakens your home security barriers and puts you at risk of burglary.
Over time, double-glazed window hinges, handles and seals can become damaged. If this is the case it could affect the way your windows function and void any warranty you may have.
Locks that aren't working
Many people install anti-burglar devices on their main gates and doors However, they tend to forget that windows are also the most frequent targets for burglars. Insecure locks can lead to drafts, let heat escape and weaken the security of your home.
If your uPVC windows locks do not work, it's likely that the mechanism of the lock is jammed. This is usually caused by the gearbox breaking in one component. This can cause the handle to not open, but to rotate 360 degrees. This is a problem that is common to uPVC windows, however it is also a problem in tilt-and-turn windows and sliding sash windows.
In this situation you can release the lock by applying pressure on the lever handle. This can be used to unblock the gearbox and restore the window's opening. If this method does not work, you may have to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.
Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are an internal locking system that secures the window utilising mushroom-like locking cams which are inserted into frame keeps. The handle activates the gearbox, which then activates the cams for either up or down movement. The spindle of the lock could break, causing the handle not to move but the window to close or open.
A faulty transmission can also make your window appear locked but it's not. This is usually the case when the central rods (sometimes called crocodile tooth fixings) in the gearbox have broken off. Misty Glaze will supply and replace the rods if this occurs.
It is not advisable to force the lock to break or get a stuck one. This can cause a lock to snap or break, especially if you have windows made of uPVC that expand and contracts as temperatures change. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who will identify the issue and fix it.
Sticky Doors/Window
It's annoying to have doors and windows that don't close however, they could also indicate more serious structural problems. If you are unable to open or close a door or window it is crucial to seek out professional assistance as soon as possible. These issues can result from a variety of things such as foundation settlement and weak crawl space support.
Windows and doors can are stuck due to humidity or an issue with the frame itself. If your frames are wood, for instance, they could be prone to warping when exposed to moisture. Even if the hardware looks good, this can make it difficult to open and close your frames. If this happens, the wood swells and presses against the hinges, creating friction.
If your window or door sticks in the summer and you are unable to get it to close, try using bar soap to decrease the friction. It will shrink and could temporarily resolve the issue. This procedure will have to be repeated frequently during times of high humidity.
Sanding the frame of the door or window to a smooth finish is a more durable fix. This can be done by hand or with the power tool. A professional can also stain and sand or paint your door or window frame to make it appear fresh and new.
If Sanding and soap aren't working, it's likely that your issue is caused by foundation settlement or a damaged crawl space. The first thing you should do is look for cracks around the affected area. It's time to contact a foundation specialist if you see any of these indications. Damage to the foundation can lead to uneven floors, misaligned walls and doors and windows that are stuck. It is important to take care of these issues as soon as possible to avoid more costly and dangerous repairs in the future. If left unattended these issues can escalate to the point that your entire home is structurally unstable. Contact the Southeast's most reputable foundation repair experts to schedule an inspection now!
Cracking/Blowing Issues
When double glazing begins to deteriorate, it may cause cracks to appear. It can be unappealing and it also allows all the heat that's build up in your home to escape. It could also pose dangerous for your family members, as the glass's sharp edges could cause injuries if they are shattered. It is best to repair any double-glazing windows with cracks before they become worse. This can increase the cost of replacement.
Window seals are crucial to keep air out between the window panes and also for stopping drafts from entering your home. However, over time, they can become perished or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not checked, it can cause condensation, moisture, and draughts in your home.
This issue can usually be resolved by a professional. They can repair the window seal to restore your windows back to their original state of repair. They will also suggest other features that will decrease the chance of a stress crack occurring in the future, such as trickle vents for improved ventilation.
You can also try lubricating hinges and handles on your windows and doors. This will allow them to move more easily and the lock to function as it should. Rub lubricating oils onto a lint-free cloth and then rub them into hinges and handle mechanism as well as in places where they go through frames (for example for sash window). You can also take off the handles and clean them with warm soapy water to remove any dirt or dust.
If your uPVC windows and doors aren't working as they should, it's crucial to contact a professional to fix them. They will be able to identify the issue quickly, and then repair it in a brief time. It's a lot safer and more affordable than attempting to fix it yourself, and possibly damaging the mechanisms. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.