Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism faulty? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to function properly. This increases the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key gets stuck inside a lock. It could also be a security problem, as it may expose you to an intruder if the door is not locked. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that you can try to resolve the issue and get your door working properly once more.
First, remember to stay calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
Next, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck that could be hindering the flow. If you have a chunk of the key that's stuck out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can be used as hook extractors and Jigsaw blades can also be used for this purpose. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Additionally, you can make use of a pair of tweezers to grasp and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It's usually available at all hardware stores. It works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. Get a double glazing repair with us online or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith can easily repair the cylinder. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using an hammer or another tool, but the most efficient way is to make use of an extended match or piece of wire. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to crack it. This is superior to using a hammer, which can harm the lock.
The most common cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can happen when the block and cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. When various metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it may create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Corrosion can be a cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head as well as the block of the cylinder are not properly maintained, this can cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at greater rates than they ought to. This can cause cracks in the future.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle or requires lots of pressure to turn, this can be the result of many things. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or misalignment and also a worn out handle.
This is a simple and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your home. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to advise you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional layer of protection against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It isn't easy to determine the cause of the problem and then fix it properly.
Repairing your damaged handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be very expensive and could cause damage to the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking some time to make sure you do it correctly.
Screwdriver Open the window, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, normally covered by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. Be sure to not lose any internal parts within the handle, for example the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same order so you can replace them in the event of a need.
Then, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw on the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is removed, you should be capable of pulling the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Securely screw it in the correct position. Do not tighten the screw too much because this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly installed, then close and test the handle. It should operate smoothly, and you will be able open your window once again.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not cause draughts and damp in your home, as well as compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle inside the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod that triggers the locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle has been turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this issue. A professional locksmith can quickly and effectively fix this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel part where the spindle is located. This can be done with no damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician will examine the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is usually carried out in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This helps eliminate any debris or dirt that might be obstructing its normal function. The spindle may then be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is similar in size to the original. He will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired, it might require replacement completely. Home centres sell generic substitutes however if your window design is unusual, you will require contacting an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can recreate the exact component. After the spindle is installed, it is attached to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle with the existing screws in the frame. Once the new handle is firmly installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.