Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't able to connect correctly or are difficult to use.
You'll lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to perform as they should. This also increases the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key snaps into the lock. This can also be a security issue because it could leave you vulnerable to an intruder if the door is not locked. There are a few easy fixes you can make to resolve the issue and get your door working again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic and begin playing around with your keys you may end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, which could make the situation much worse.
Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break up any pieces that are stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a bit of the key that is sticking out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but be cautious not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can work in a pinch as a hook extractor, and some Jigsaw blades also work for this function. If you don't happen to have any of these items you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. This is usually found in most hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any water or ice that could be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it may be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are 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 could 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 using the hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to break it. This is superior to using a hammer, which can harm the lock.
The most common cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of various metals, like cast iron and aluminum. When different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Another possible cause for cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly they could rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand more than anticipated. Over time, this can cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or an old handle are the most common causes of this problem.
This is a simple and affordable fix that the 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, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which offer an additional layer of protection against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms which deteriorate over time. If yours fails, it can be difficult to identify the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
If the issue is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop the draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing the handle could be expensive and could damage the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking some time to make sure you do it right.
Screwdriver Open the window remove the screw that holds the handle. It should be located on the inside of the back plate, and is normally hidden by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. It is important to not lose any internal components 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, rotate the handle to make it 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle by using another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, pull the handle out and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, making sure that it's the same length as the previous one (you can usually find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and screw it securely in the right place. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to make sure your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they're not closing properly, you could experience damp or draughts inside your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod that triggers the locks that are shaped like mushrooms and lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle has been turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
Luckily, there are options to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel portion of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This is done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. double glazing repairs involves breaking down the spindle into its component parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of wear or damage. This process is usually carried out by technicians working in a clean environment.
Next, clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or debris which may be obstructing it from working normally. After this, the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle it is possible to use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements, but If the style of your window is unusual then it is necessary to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact part for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.