Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism faulty? Perhaps the window or door handles don't meet up correctly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key is snapped inside the lock. It also poses a security risk since the door may not lock and leave you vulnerable to intruders. There are a couple of quick fixes you can try to repair the issue and make your door work again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil, into the lock. This will assist the broken piece to come out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any stuck pieces that could be blocking the way. If you have a part of the key stuck out, grab it with a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both methods are effective, but you need to be careful not to push the damaged key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you do not have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers to bend them and create a hook. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers to grab and remove the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. 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 could be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles or snapped 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 request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a major security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for a professional locksmith to complete. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder in order to repair it. This can be done with a hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, put the end of the match or wire in the keyway. The locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is much better than using a hammer, which could damage the lock.
The most frequent cause of cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can happen when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made from different metals, including cast iron and aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool off at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. When the cylinder head and the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, it can result in corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at greater rates than they ought to. This can lead to cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of reasons. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common causes of this issue.
This is a straightforward and inexpensive fix that most homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith should be able to resolve this problem within an hour of arriving at your home. Based on your requirements, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which provide an additional security layer from burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the security that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that wear out over time. It isn't easy to determine the cause of a broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and lock of your door.
With double glazing repairs open then loosen the screw that secures the handle by using a screwdriver. This should be located on the inside face of the back plate, which is usually covered by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. It is important to not lose any internal components of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so you can replace them again when needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle with the spindle in the back. Once the screw is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off and take off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure it's the same size as the old one (you can typically find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and then securely screw it in the correct position. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It should work smoothly, and you will be able open your window once again.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're working with the handle. If they don't, you could experience draughts and damp in your home as in addition to compromising your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of your window frames to ensure that they shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an locking device within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod that activates a series of locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a problem that is frustrating.
Fortunately there are ways to rectify this issue. A professional locksmith can quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A professional locksmith will be able disassemble the window's handle using a tool to remove the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle and identify what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or other debris that might be preventing it from working normally. Following this, the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, the dowel can be used that is similar in size to the original. He will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly 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 rare then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact part for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be connected to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws already in the frame. Once the handle is securely in place, you can use your uPVC windows.