Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to operate.
You'll be wasting 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 an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key snaps inside a lock. This can also be a security problem in that it can make you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. There are a few quick fixes you can make to fix the problem and make your door functional again.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic and begin poking around wildly, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key deeper into the lock, which could make the situation much worse.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key that is still sticking out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can work in a pinch as a hook extractor and jigsaw blades are also suitable for this function. If you don't have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the remaining piece of the key that was broken.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. It is found in most hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any moisture or ice that may be in the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to use. Book a double glazing repair via our website or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder is an extremely risky security issue. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix double glazing window repairs will need to tap it. They can do this using the hammer or any other tool, but the most efficient method is to use an extended match or piece of wire. Then, place the match's end or wire close to the keyway. The locksmith can strike the lock and break it open. This is far better than using a heavy hammer that could cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the main reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder block and head are made of various metals, such as cast iron and aluminum. When various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Another possible cause for cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. When the cylinder head and the block of the cylinder are not properly maintained, it can cause corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at a higher rate than they ought to. As time passes, this may also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of reasons. This issue could be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment or a worn-out handle.
This is a simple and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith should be able to resolve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your property. Depending on the needs of your home they can change the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which offer an additional security layer from burglars. It is a small cost to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They have intricate mechanisms that wear out over time. It isn't easy to determine the cause of a broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
Fixing your broken handle, whether it's an internal latch or locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be costly and may damage the door's frame and lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to do it right.
With the window in the open position then loosen the screw that secures the handle by using the screwdriver. This should be located on the inside face of the back plate, normally concealed by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal parts of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same order so that it is easier to replace them if needed.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you can take the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, ensuring it is the same length as the previous one (you will typically find them online or in hardware stores) and securely screw it in the right place. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly fitted after which you can close and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut properly while you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing properly, you could experience damp or draughts in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on the window frames to ensure that they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle within the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle which operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that is then activated by a series of cams that look like mushrooms, they locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. A good locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel part in which the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can inspect the spindle and 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 in an environment that is clean.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or other debris that could be hindering it from working normally. The spindle can then be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician will need an identical dowel size to the original and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched 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. However, if the style of your window is rare then it is necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact model for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it is attached to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.