Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism broken? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to use.
It's important that the double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key snaps inside a lock. It can also be a security issue, as it may expose you to a burglar if the door is not locked. There are a few easy fixes you can try to repair the issue and get your door working again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and begin playing around with your keys, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key deeper into the lock, thereby making the situation even more difficult.
Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key that's stuck out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or 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 to extract hooks, and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this use. If you do not have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend and create hooks. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and remove the last piece of broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to call a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also modify 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 be a major security risk. A locksmith professional can repair the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. This can be done using a hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to use a wire or a long match. Position the match or the wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to break it. This is better than using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. 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.
Another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner, they can be corroded or rust, which can cause them to expand more than expected. This can lead to cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common causes of this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that give you an extra layer of protection from burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that wear out over time. It can be difficult to determine the reason behind the problem and fix it correctly.
The issue could be in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop drafts. It can be expensive to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position then loosen the screw that holds the handle using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, which is usually covered by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. Be sure not to lose any internal components within the handle, such as the plates or levers that are on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can replace them when needed.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once this is loose, you should be capable of pulling the handle off and take off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure that it's the same length as the previous one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and screw it securely into the right place. Don't over tighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able to unlock your window.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing properly, you could experience damp or draughts inside your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the frames of your windows to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. A good locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to take out the wheel part that houses the spindle. This is done without damaging the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
After removing double glazing repair can examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any particular areas of wear or damage. This procedure is typically performed by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or other debris that could be hindering it from working normally. After that the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician could use a dowel of a similar size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle has precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements, but if the design of your window is rare then you will need to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate 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 on the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.