Repair, don't replace
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions we hear most — on misted glass, locks, hinges, cat flaps and more. Still stuck? Call Chris on 07973 682 562 for a free, no-obligation quote.
Getting started
No. CST Double Glazing Repairs never charges a call-out fee. Chris Triggs will assess the problem and provide a free, no-obligation quote before any work begins, so you know exactly where you stand.
CST is based in Rutland and covers the surrounding Rutland and Cambridgeshire area, including Corby, Melton Mowbray, Oakham, Stamford and Uppingham. If you're nearby and not sure whether you're in range, just call Chris on 07973 682 562 to check.
In almost all cases, repairing is far cheaper than replacing. Most misted or blown windows are structurally sound — only the sealed unit has failed — so replacing just the glass costs a fraction of a whole new window and frame. The same applies to doors: a new lock, hinge or handle usually solves the problem without a full replacement.
Yes. Chris provides a priority service for emergencies such as a smashed window, a broken door lock or a door that won't secure. Call 07973 682 562 for immediate assistance.
Yes. Chris has extensive experience across uPVC, aluminium and timber windows and doors, and can advise on the best repair for each frame type.
Double glazing & glass replacement
Misting appears when the seal between the two panes of a double-glazed unit fails, trapping moisture in the cavity. This creates the cloudy or blown look. It's a sign the sealed unit has reached the end of its life, not that anything is wrong with your frame.
Rather than replacing the whole window, Chris measures your existing glass, has a new factory-sealed unit made to match, then removes the failed glass and fits the new unit. This restores clarity and insulation for much less than a full replacement.
Yes. In the vast majority of cases only the sealed glass unit needs replacing — the frame stays exactly as it is. This is quicker, tidier and considerably cheaper than a new window.
Yes. A cracked or smashed pane is a security and safety risk, so Chris can fit a brand-new, factory-sealed unit to restore your window. For patio and French doors, toughened safety glass is used.
A blown window has a failed seal and looks misty or cloudy but is still intact. A broken window has a cracked or smashed pane. Both are usually solved by replacing the glass unit rather than the frame.
Yes. A failed unit loses much of its insulating value, which can push up your heating bills, and it obscures your view over time. Replacing the glass restores both the look and the thermal performance of the window.
Door & window locks
No. In most cases Chris can replace just the faulty locking mechanism or the central gearbox, restoring the door to full working order for a fraction of the cost of a new door.
This is often caused by a failing gearbox inside the multi-point locking mechanism, though it can also be a misaligned or dropped door putting pressure on the lock. Chris can diagnose the exact cause and fit the right part.
A floppy or spinning handle usually means the spring inside the lock case has broken, or the gearbox is worn. It's worth fixing promptly, as it can make your locks harder to engage.
Yes. Chris offers a non-destructive entry service to open a jammed door wherever possible, then replaces the faulty mechanism so it works properly again.
Yes. CST provides a local, mobile locksmith service for uPVC, composite and aluminium doors across Rutland and the surrounding area. Even if a specific lock isn't in stock, Chris will always secure your property in the meantime.
Yes. This is usually a snapped espagnolette (the internal locking strip) or a worn mechanism. Chris stocks a wide range of shootbolts, espags and friction stays to get your window locking securely again.
Window keys can be difficult to source, so the usual solution is to fit new handles or replacement cylinders. Chris can advise on the best option for your windows.
Door hinges & handles
Over time the weight of a double-glazed door can cause it to drop on its hinges, so it no longer sits square in the frame. This makes it stick and puts pressure on the lock. Chris can realign or adjust the hinges to lift the door back into position.
Yes. If your handle is broken, loose or looks worn, it can be replaced on its own without touching the lock or the door. Chris carries a range of sizes and finishes to match your existing door.
Often, yes. If a hinge is bent or worn, the door can't pull tightly against its weather seal. Adjusting or replacing the hinges closes those gaps, cutting out draughts and helping to reduce heat loss.
Handles come in a range of finishes to suit your door, including satin or brushed chrome, white, gold and black. High-security reinforced handles are also available for added protection.
Yes. A dropped door forces the locking points out of alignment, which over time can lead to total lock failure. Catching it early with a hinge adjustment or replacement is far cheaper than replacing a failed mechanism later.
Cat flap installation
Not directly — toughened glass can't be cut once it's been made. To fit a cat flap in glass, Chris measures your existing pane, orders a brand-new factory-sealed unit with the hole pre-cut and toughened, then swaps the units and fits the flap. This keeps your home energy-efficient and prevents misting.
Yes. Whether it's a patio, French or conservatory door, Chris fits the flap into a purpose-made replacement glazed unit so the seal and insulation stay intact.
Yes. If your door has a solid uPVC infill panel, a flap can often be fitted straight into it. If the existing panel is thin or aged, Chris may recommend a new reinforced panel designed to house the flap securely.
When fitted by a professional, no. Chris positions the flap correctly to maintain the structural integrity of the frame and panel, and ensures your multi-point locking system continues to work as normal.
Chris can install standard manual four-way locking flaps, microchip cat flaps that only let your own pets in, and larger pet doors suitable for small to medium dogs.
Letter plates & door panels
Yes — you don't need a whole new door. The central panel is held in by beading, which Chris carefully removes to swap the old or damaged panel for a new one. It's a fast, clean and cost-effective process.
Yes. UV exposure often causes older uPVC panels to yellow. Chris can fit a fresh modern panel in a style to suit your home, whether plain flat or decorative moulded.
A draughty letterbox is usually caused by a snapped spring or perished seals. Chris can fit a modern, weather-sealed letter plate with internal brushes and a tight-closing flap to keep cold air out of your hallway.
No. Chris makes sure any new panel is seated correctly so it doesn't interfere with your multi-point locking mechanism — and can check your door and window locks are aligned while he's at it.
Letter plates come in a range of finishes to match your handles and hinges, including polished chrome, gold, satin silver, black and white.
Conservatories
Yes. If a roof panel is cracked or has misted up, Chris can manufacture and fit a matching replacement unit using high-quality safety glass, keeping your conservatory safe and thermally efficient.
Not at all. This is usually a worn locking mechanism. Chris can install a brand-new, high-security multi-point lock into your existing door frames — a far more cost-effective solution than replacing the conservatory.
No. CST specialises in installing new glass units and locking mechanisms. We don't offer a repair service for structural leaks or guttering issues.
Not seeing your question?
Call 07973 682 562