So You've Bought Double Glazing Locks Repair ... Now What? Double Glazing Locks Repair

When a double-glazed window will not shut, it creates draughts that allow valuable heat to escape. It also reduces your security measures for your home and puts you at risk of burglary.

Double-glazed window seals, hinges and handles can become damaged over time. If this happens, it could affect how your windows function and void any warranty you may have.

Locks with a problem

While many people take great care in installing anti-burglar security systems for their gates as well as main doors but they often forget that windows are among the top targets for burglars. Having faulty locks can lead to draughts in the house, allow valuable heat to escape, and weaken your home's security barriers.

If your uPVC windows locks don't function, it is most likely that the lock mechanism is blocked. This is usually due to a slit in the gearbox component. This can cause the handle to rotate 360 degrees but not open. double glazing window repairs is a common issue with uPVC casement windows, but is also seen in tilt and turn windows and even sliding sash windows.

If this happens, you can unlock the lock by pressing the lever handle. This will unlock the gearbox and reopen the window's opening. If this doesn't work, you may need to replace the window lock mechanism entirely.

Most modern uPVC windows use espagnolette locks. These are locking systems inside the window which secure the window by using mushroom-shaped locking cams that are inserted into the frame keep. The handle is the one that operates the gearbox which then activates the cams to either move upwards or downwards. The spindle of the lock can break which causes the handle to move but the door to either open or close.

A faulty gearbox can also cause your window to appear locked, but isn't actually. This can happen when the centre rods (sometimes known as crocodile teeth fixings) in the gearbox have been snapped off. If this is the case, Misty Glaze can supply and install replacement rods to restore the functionality of your window.

It is important to not force a broken or stuck lock. This can cause the lock to snap or break, especially if you have windows made of uPVC which expands and contracts with temperature changes. It is best to call an expert locksmith who will identify the issue and fix it.

Sticky Doors/Window

It is annoying to have windows and doors that don't close, but they may be a sign of more serious structural issues. It is essential to seek professional help if you have difficulties closing or opening a door or window. These problems can be caused by a number of factors like foundation settlement or an absence of support for the crawl space.

Humidity or frame problems could cause windows and doors to stick. When exposed to moisture, wood frames may begin to warp. Even if the hardware appears nice, it can make it difficult to open and close your frames. The wood expands when this happens, and it is pushed up against the hinges, creating friction.

Rub the window or door with soap to decrease friction, especially if it is stuck in summer. This will help it shrink and can resolve the issue temporarily. This procedure may have to be repeated regularly during times of high moisture.

Sanding the frame of the window or door to a smooth surface is a more permanent fix. This can be done by hand or using a power tool. A professional can also sand, paint or stain your frame or door to make it look new once more.

If Sanding and soap aren't working, it's likely that the issue is due to foundation settlement or a compromised crawl space. The first thing you need to do is check for cracks in the area. It's time to call a foundation specialist when you spot any of these indications. Foundation damage can cause uneven floors and a misaligned interior wall and, in turn, sticking windows and doors. It is crucial to address these issues as early as you can to avoid costly and dangerous repairs in the future. If left unattended the issues could get worse to the point that your entire home's structure is unstable. Call the Southeast's top foundation repair specialists to set up an inspection today!

Cracking/Blowing Issues

Cracks can appear when double glazing begins to degrade. This could be a disconcerting sight and also let all the heat from your home to escape. This could also pose a safety threat to your family, as the glass pieces can cause injury if they break. It is better to repair any double-glazing windows with cracks before they get worse. This can increase the cost of replacement.

Window seals are crucial to prevent drafts from entering your home and keep air between the window panes. However, over time these may become damaged or shrink due to changes in weather conditions. If not taken care of, this can lead to humidity in the home as well as condensation and draughts.

This issue is typically solved by an expert. They can repair the window seal in order to restore your windows back to their original state of repair. They can also suggest options to reduce the chance of future stress cracks, such as trickle ventilation for better ventilation.

You can also try lubricating the hinges as well as handles on your windows and doors. This will enable them to move more easily and the lock to function as intended. Rub lubricating oils onto a lint free cloth and then rub them into the hinges and handle mechanism as well as in areas where they pass through frames (for example for sash window). It is also beneficial to remove the handles from the frames and wash them by using warm water to get rid of any dirt or grit that has been sunk into them.


It is crucial to contact an expert when you find that your uPVC windows and doors aren't working as they should. They can identify the problem quickly and then resolve it in a short period of time. It's a lot less expensive and more secure than trying to fix it yourself and risk harming the mechanism. You'll also have peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.