Double Glazing Lock Repairs

A good quality lock on your doors and windows will stop burglars from getting into your home. They generally don't like breaking glass or squeezing through windows that are not closed.

Some double glazing owners, however, have had issues with their window or door lock after installing. These issues can be resolved without the need for a new double glazing.

Broken or faulty locks

If your upvc repairs [by Haim] door or window lock is broken or faulty, then a locksmith can fix it for you. They can fix the hinges, striker plates and locks on your double glazing. They can also move the cylinder around to correct any misalignment issues that may be causing the handle to not function correctly.

If the key fits in the lock but it won't turn or is difficult to insert the mechanism could be locked up. The dirt or grease could be trapped in the mechanism. If this is the case, it may be possible for the lock to be cleaned and lubricated. It is important to make use of a dry lubricant such as teflon or graphite instead of oil which attracts dirt and stick to the inside of the mechanism. After lubricating the lock you need to insert the key and try to turn it. The lubricant must be absorbed into the mechanism, and the lock should spin easily.

Screws that are loose within the lock mechanism can be another reason for a broken lock. They can loosen and break off or fall out completely and stop the lock from working correctly. A screwdriver can be used to tighten these screws however, caution must be taken not to over-tighten them since this could cause damage to internal components.

A broken lock can be dangerous for you and your family members, especially if you have young children. They can open the door without knowing and gain access to your house. If you are worried about this happening, then a locksmith who is vetted can provide fast and efficient assistance to secure your double glazing doors.

Misty Glaze are a professional uPVC and double glazing company in Lancing, who can repair any type of defective and broken mechanisms such as handles, cylinders, handles and lock systems on uPVC windows and doors. We can also reconfigure the locking system on your uPVC windows or double glazing to meet your needs. This means that replacement windows or doors are not always necessary.

Handles that are broken or damaged

As part of their overall security package, many double-glazed windows have a multipoint lock. This is a great choice for those who are worried about burglars who are opportunistic and trying to gain access to their home. Ask your installer about antilift blocks. They can be installed alongside your existing locks and can help keep your windows firmly closed.

It's not uncommon for the handle locks to get damaged or fail - they are the first component of your window to be pushed open by a criminal intent on breaking into. The good news is, this is one of the easiest parts to repair.

Modern handles made of aluminium and uPVC operate a multi-point locking system called Espagnolette which is designed to resist forced entry. This security upgrade is usually offered as an optional extra on new uPVC window installations. As an upgrade option older style handles made of aluminium or uPVC that are no longer used can be upgraded to the shoot bolt locking system.

It is important to repair the handle as soon as possible if it is damaged. The damaged handles could stop the window from closing properly and allow drafts to get in. It may also be a weakness that burglars who are opportunistic could exploit, putting your family and belongings at risk of theft.

To repair the damaged mechanism, first access the window frame and then remove the damaged handle. The gearbox that opens the handle is then removed and the type of gear is identified, so that a replacement may be found that matches the profile of internal window frame mechanism.

Once the mechanism is replaced the handle can then be re-attached with the original screws - but we would recommend replacing them with more long screws because this will ensure a more secure fit. The final stage is to apply a coating of clear sealant to protect the handle from further corrosion. After this step is completed your window will be functional again, and at a fraction of the cost of replacing it.

Hinges that are broken or faulty

If your windows do not close properly, you could suffer from draughts or the weakening of your home's security barrier and an increased risk of water or damp damage. Windows hinges that break or fail to function properly are a common occurrence and can be fixed easily.

If you have a uPVC window that won't close or open and close, it's likely that your hinges are damaged or broken and require replacement. Many window companies will require you to purchase an entirely new window unit to resolve this issue, but we can replace the hinges to save you money.

Window hinges can often break from repeated use or they might be damaged due to corrosion over time. If you've broken a window hinge, it is important to take precautions to avoid further damage. This means not causing the window to open or close.

You can find the right parts for your hinge by identifying its model. The most commonly used types of window hinges include Maco, Mila, Roto and a variety of other brands. It's best to consult an expert in this regard to ensure that you don't make the mistake of purchasing parts that aren't compatible with your existing hardware and cause further damage.

Faulty hinges are a major issue for uPVC windows and doors. They can be the main source of noise, and can also allow water to infiltrate your windows.

Verify whether the pin barrels on both hinge halves are aligned. If not, tap the headpin with the hammer to make an incline in the hinge barrel. This will help keep the pin in the right position. Have a person hold the doors as you take off hinge screws and hinges. Replace the hinges with ones that are of the same size, and attach the screws using glue. Finally put the hinges in place using weights or clamps while the glue dries.

Once the hinges have been fixed, you should be able to put back the door and attach the handle. Replace the screws using wood dowels of the same size as the screw that was used to ensure that they match.

Glass that is broken or is damaged

While uPVC windows do an excellent job of keeping the cold out and the heat in, they may become damaged over time. This can be the case with broken or damaged glass as well as damaged locks. This is an issue that can be very expensive when left unattended. This can also detract from your home's aesthetics and result in a decrease in insulation. It is important to repair any damage immediately.

If the glass is cracked but not shattered it is possible to fix it yourself using the right tools and techniques. First, make sure the area around the glass is clear so that any shards don't cause injury to anyone or are an accident hazard. Then, take any pieces of broken glass and dispose of them properly. Then, put masking tape over the entire area to prevent pieces of glass from scattering and sticking to your skin when you move them. Pre-fitting the glass pane before applying glue is a good idea if you are dealing with windows with two panes. This will ensure that you have enough space to finish your project.

Before applying the glue, clean the surface of the broken frame and the glass with an unclean, dry cloth. Follow the instructions for application and curing times that can differ from product to product. You may need to clamp the broken glass with clamps made of lightweight materials designed to support fragile materials, depending on the angle.

When the adhesive has completely cured, carefully reinstall the glass in the window frame, ensuring it's flush with the edges of the frame and that there are no gaps between the glass and the window replacement sash. Be careful to avoid flexing the window while it's put back in place, as this can weaken the seal and cause condensation and water infiltration.

If you have a glass window that's completely broken or has larger cracks, call a professional glazier such as O'Brien(r) to organise a replacement. If you leave broken glass unattended, it could pose a safety risk for pet and children It's therefore essential to act fast.