Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the window or door handles don't meet up properly or are hard to use.
It's important that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key gets stuck inside the lock. It could also be a security problem because it could leave you vulnerable to a burglar if the door is not locked. There are a few easy solutions you can use to fix the problem and make your door work again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil, into the lock. This will help the broken piece come out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you have a part of the key that is stuck out, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors and some Jigsaw blades also work for this use. If you do not have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. You can also use a pair tweezers to grab and pull out the last piece of broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's usually available at all hardware stores, and it works by freezing any water or ice that could be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it may be time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems like broken handles or broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to operate. Book a double glazing repair with us online, or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a serious security risk. A professional locksmith can easily fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using the hammer or any other tool, but the most efficient way is to use a long match or a piece of wire. Then, put the end of the match or wire near the keyway. After that, the locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is superior to using the hammer, which could cause damage to 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. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.
Another reason that could cause cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly, they can be corroded or rust and cause them to expand more than expected. Over time, this can also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this can be the result of several things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common causes of this problem.
Fortunately, this is an easy and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith can usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the home. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes, depending on your specific needs. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that add an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They have intricate mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours is damaged, it can be difficult to identify the cause of the issue and make sure you fix it properly.
If the issue is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop drafts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be very expensive and could harm the door's frame as well as lock, so it's worth taking the time to do it correctly.
With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw that holds the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the back plate, normally hidden by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. You should not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace them if needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle at the back. Once this is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, making sure it's the same size as the old one (you will typically find them on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it into the right place. Be careful not to tighten too much as this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It should function smoothly and you'll be able to open your window after a few times.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not closing properly cause damp and draughts in your home, as well as compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle which operates a locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle is broken This can be an extremely frustrating issue.
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to remedy this situation. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix this problem. A good locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel part that houses the spindle. This is done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting each component, noting any wear or damage. This process is usually carried out by technicians working in a clean environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or debris that could be hindering its normal operation. The spindle may be replaced or repaired. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is the same size to the original. The technician will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the design of your window is unique then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact component for you. After the spindle is installed, it is fixed to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the handle is securely in place, you can use your uPVC windows.