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 is crucial that your double-glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks in a lock, it could be extremely difficult. It also poses a security risk since the door might not lock and could leave you vulnerable to intruders. There are a couple of quick fixes you can make to resolve the issue and make your door work again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and start poking around wildly you could end up pushing the broken piece of the key deeper into the lock, which could make the situation worse.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will help the broken piece be removed more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key stuck out then grab it using the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can work in a pinch as hook extractors and Jigsaw blades also work for this use. If you don't have any of these items you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the last bit of the broken key.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these methods are working, it might be time to call locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles and broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. You can schedule an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. This can be done using the hammer or other tool. However, double glazing window repairs is to employ a wire or long match. Then, place the end of the match or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is far better than using a hammer that can harm the lock.
Overheating is the main reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of various metals, such as cast iron and aluminium. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
Another possible cause of cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder head and cylinder block are not properly maintained, it can cause corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at greater rates than they ought to. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, it can be caused by many things. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.
This is a simple and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your home. Depending on your needs they can change the locking mechanism, change the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to provide you with a recommendation of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will give you an additional layer of security against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the security that comes from 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 that become less effective over time. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason behind a broken window handle lock and fix 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 drafts. It could be costly to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it could also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver When the window is open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. It should be located on the inside of the back plate, and is normally covered by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal components of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same place 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 which holds it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is removed, you should be able to pull the handle away and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure it is the same length as the previous one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and screw it securely into place. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly fitted after which you can close and test the handle. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able to unlock your window.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not closing properly cause damp and draughts inside your home as in addition to compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges on the frames of your windows to ensure that they shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle within the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod that triggers the cams with a mushroom shape that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle is broken, this can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They can remove the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel portion of the mechanism where the spindle is. This is done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed the technician can then examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting every component, observing any damage or excessive wear. This process is typically carried out in a clean, well-lit room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal operation. Following this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. He will then drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle is precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired it may require replacement completely. Home centres sell generic substitutes however if your window design is unusual, you will have to speak with a cabinet maker or woodworker who can replicate the exact part. After the spindle is installed, it is fixed to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the handle is firmly seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.