Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism broken? Maybe the window or door handles don't meet up properly or are hard to use.
It's important that the double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key gets stuck inside the lock. It could also be a security risk since the door may not be locked and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are fortunately simple fixes you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door operating properly once more.
Be calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
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 up any pieces that are stuck. If you have a chunk of the key that's stuck out and is not being removed, grab it with the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work well, however, be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used to extract hooks, and some Jigsaw blades also work for this purpose. If you don't have any of these items then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and remove the remaining piece of the key that was broken.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture present inside the lock.
If none of these strategies are working then it's probably the time to contact 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 reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are easier to use. You can book repairs to your double-glazing online or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a serious security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder to fix it. They can do this using an hammer or another tool, but the best way is to employ a long match or a piece of wire. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to break it. This is better than using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the main reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made of various metals such as cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will heat up and cool off at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest.
Another possible cause of cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they may be corroded or rust and cause them to expand faster than they would normally. This can cause cracks in the future.
If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of causes. This issue could be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, or a worn-out handle.
This is a straightforward and inexpensive fix that most double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith can usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at your property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes, based on your particular requirements. A skilled locksmith will always be able to advise you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that deteriorate with time and use, so it's no surprise they occasionally break. It can be difficult to determine the cause of the broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
Whether the problem is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you stop the draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver: With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate. It is typically covered by a screw cap for aesthetic reasons. Be careful not to damage any of the internal components inside the handle, such as the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same order so you can replace them if needed.
Then, using a second screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once this is loose, you should be capable of pulling the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or in hardware stores). Screw it into the frame. Be careful not to overtighten as this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they aren't closing properly, you may experience draughts or damp in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle within the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod that activates a series of mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle has broken, this can be a very frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively address this problem. double glazing repairs near me can take apart the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel portion of the mechanism that is where the spindle goes. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component part, noting any wear or damage. The process is performed in a clean environment by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this will remove any dirt or other debris that might be hindering its normal function. The spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician could use an identical dowel size to the original and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual, you will have to speak with an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can recreate the exact component. After the spindle is installed, it can be connected to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is firmly in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.