Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't able to connect properly or are hard to use.
It's important that the double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key snaps into the lock. It's also potentially a security risk since the door may not be locked and make you vulnerable to burglars. There are fortunately quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door operating correctly.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key further into the lock.
Next, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any stuck pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key left hanging out and you want to remove it, use a paperclip or some other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and remove it. Both methods are effective, but you need to be careful not to push the damaged key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it may be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix problems such as broken handles and snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. Request a repair for your double glazing with us online or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a serious security risk. Luckily, it's an easy repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix the cylinder locksmiths must tap it. They can do this with an hammer or another tool, but the most efficient method is to make use of an extended match or piece of wire. Then, position the match's tip or wire near the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock in order to break it. This is more secure than using a hammer that could damage the lock.
Overheating is the primary cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made of different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. double glazing repairs will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Another possible cause for cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained properly they may rust or corrode and cause them to expand faster than they would normally. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC door or window lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this can be caused by several things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or an old handle are the most common causes of this issue.
Fortunately, this is an easy and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will typically be able to solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your home. Depending on the needs of your home, 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 on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They have complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours is damaged it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure that you repair it correctly.
The issue could be in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop draughts. It is costly to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and could also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically covered by a screw cap for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal components of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw at the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle using another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, take the handle off and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Screw it in the correct position. Don't over tighten the screw because this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Ensure the new handle is installed, then close and test the handle. It should function smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once more.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not closing correctly, you could encounter damp or draughts inside your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is particularly typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate an locking device within the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a central rod which in turn activates cams that look like mushrooms, they lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle has broken This can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively address this problem. A reputable locksmith can disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This can be done with no damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can inspect the spindle to determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking the spindle into its component parts and meticulously noting their general condition as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. The process is performed in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or debris that might be obstructing its normal function. The spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician will need the dowel that is similar in size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it could require replacement completely. Home centers sell generic replacements, but if your window design is unusual, you will require contacting an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can make the exact component. Once the spindle has been installed, it is fixed to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.