Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to operate.
You will lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not work properly. This can also increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock for an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off in the lock, it can be incredibly annoying. It can also be a security risk because it could leave you vulnerable to an intruder if the door is not locked. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door functioning correctly.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic and start poking around wildly you may end up pushing the broken piece of the key further into the lock, which could make the situation worse.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key left sticking out it, you can make use of a paperclip or other metal object that is thin to grab it and pull it out. Both of these methods work well, however, be cautious not to push the broken piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you don't happen to have one of these tools you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Also, a pair tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present in the lock.
If double glazing repairs near me of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly fix problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can book an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder to fix it. This can be done with the hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to make use of a wire or a long match. The match or wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to crack it. This is more secure than using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
Overheating is the most common cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of different metals, including cast iron and aluminium. When different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it can create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause of cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they may be corroded or rust and cause them to expand more than expected. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires a lot more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of reasons. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and affordable fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith should be able to resolve this problem within an hour of arriving at your home. Based on your requirements, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will provide an extra layer of protection against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that become less effective with time and usage, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. It can be difficult to determine the cause of the broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
Fixing your broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism will increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing the handle could be costly and may damage the door's frame and 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, and is normally covered by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. Be sure not to damage any of the internal parts within the handle, for example the plates or levers on either side of the spindle. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, using a second screwdriver loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle at the back. Once the screw is loose, remove the handle and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can find them online or in hardware stores). Screw it into the frame. Do not overtighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Close the handle and try it. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly while you're working with the handle. If they're not closing properly cause damp and draughts inside 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 within the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is especially typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod that activates a series of cams with a mushroom shape that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They will be able to take apart the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel part of the mechanism that is where the spindle is. This is done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
Once the wheel is removed the technician can then inspect the spindle and determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians working in a clean environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal operation. The spindle may be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, he can use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. The technician will then drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be required to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements. However, If the style of your window is unique then it is necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact model for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the holes for screws in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.