Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism not working properly? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that the double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off in a lock, it could be extremely annoying. It also poses an issue for security, since the door might not lock and make you open to intrusion. There are a couple of quick fixes you can try to fix the problem and make your door functional again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to help 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 then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, but be cautious not to push the broken piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you do not have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Finally, you can make use of a pair of tweezers to grasp and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly resolve issues with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. Book a double glazing repair through us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose an extremely risky security issue. Luckily, it's an easy repair for a professional locksmith to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. This can be accomplished with a hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Position the match or the wire end near the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is much better than using a heavy hammer that can cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the main cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the block and cylinder head are made of various metals like cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will be heated and cool at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest.
Another reason that could cause cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly they could be corroded or rust and cause them to expand faster than they would normally. As time passes, this may also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of reasons. This problem can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism, or misalignment or a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it's a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith should be able to solve the issue within an hour of arriving at your home. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes, depending on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith can always advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which offer an additional security layer from burglars. It's a small price to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It can be difficult to determine the reason for the problem and repair it correctly.
Fixing the broken handle, whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch, will improve the security of your uPVC door and prevent draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be expensive and could damage the door's frame and lock and frame, so it's worth spending the time to do it correctly.
Screwdriver: With the window open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the back plate, normally hidden by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be careful not to lose any internal components inside the handle, such as the plates or levers on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace them if needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle at the back. Once this is loose, you should be able to pull the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure it is the same length as the old one (you can usually find these on the internet or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into the right place. Be careful not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able to open your window again.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly while you're working with the handle. If they don't close correctly, you could encounter damp or draughts inside your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod which is then activated by a series of cams that resemble mushrooms, which lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned, it is likely that the spindle is broken and this could be a very frustrating issue.
Fortunately there are steps that can be taken to rectify this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to take out the wheel from the area that houses the spindle. This can be done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician can examine the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This process is usually carried out by technicians working in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal function. After this the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, it is possible to use a dowel that is the same size to the original. He 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 spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could require replacement. Home centres sell generic replacements. However, If the style of your window is unusual then it will be necessary to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact part for you. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.