Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy if your double-glazed doors don't perform as they should. This can also increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key snaps into a lock. It could also be a security issue in that it can make you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. There are a few easy solutions you can use to resolve the issue and get your door working again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and begin doing a lot of fumbling around you could end up pushing the broken piece of the key further into the lock, thereby making the situation much worse.
Then spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck that could be blocking the way. If you have a chunk of the key still sticking out, grab it with a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work well, but be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can work in a pinch to extract hooks and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create a hook. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the remaining part of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. It's available at most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles and broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to operate. Request a repair for your double glazing with us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a major security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for an expert locksmith to complete. To fix the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. This can be done using a hammer, or any other tool. The best method is to use a wire or a long match. Place the match or wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to crack it. This is far better than using a heavy hammer that can damage the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals such as cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest of the cylinder.
Another reason that could cause cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained properly they could rust or corrode and cause them to expand more than expected. This could lead to cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of causes. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common causes of this problem.
Fortunately it is a simple and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, based on the specific requirements of your home. double glazing repairs with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will add an extra layer of protection against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the security that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms that become less effective over time. It can be difficult to determine the reason for the broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's an internal latch or locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be costly and may damage the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking the time to do it right.
Screwdriver: With the window open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it to enhance the appearance. You should not lose any internal parts of the handle such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement to make it easier to replace them if needed.
Then, using a second screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle to the spindle on the back. Once this is removed, you should be capable of pulling the handle off and take off the damaged spindle. Replace this with a new one, ensuring it's the same length as the old one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into place. Be careful not to tighten too much as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is correctly installed, then close and test the handle. It should work smoothly and you'll be able to open your window after a few times.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to make sure your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they don't close properly, you could experience damp or draughts in your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as a locking device in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod which activates mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle has broken and this could be an extremely frustrating issue.
Luckily, there are steps that can be taken to rectify this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. They can remove the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel component of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its component components and carefully observing their general condition as in addition to any specific areas of wear or damage. This procedure is typically performed by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
Next, clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or other debris that could be hindering it from operating normally. Following this, the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle it is possible to use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. The technician will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but If the style of your window is unusual 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 can be fixed to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the screws that are already in the frame. Once the handle is firmly set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.