Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are your uPVC door or window mechanism broken? Maybe the window or door handles don't meet up properly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that the double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key is snapped into the lock. It could also be a security problem because it could leave you vulnerable to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are fortunately simple fixes you can use to solve the issue and get your door functioning properly once more.
Keep calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating oil, into the lock. This will allow the broken piece to emerge more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any stuck pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you're fortunate enough to have a bit of the key sticking out and you want to remove it, use a paperclip or some other metal object that is thin to grab it and remove it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can serve as a hook extractor, and some Jigsaw blades also work for this use. If you don't have any of these items then you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Also, a pair tweezers can be used to grip and remove the remaining piece of the key that was broken.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at all hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any water or ice that could be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it could be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can schedule repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. They can do this using a hammer or other tools, but the most effective way is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. Place the match or wire's end close to the keyway. After that, the locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
Overheating is the most common cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of various metals, including cast iron and aluminium. When different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it can create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head and cylinder block are not properly maintained, it can cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at greater rates than they ought to. In time, this could also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot of pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of reasons. This problem can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism, or misalignment and also a worn out handle.
Fortunately, this is an easy and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the home. Depending on the needs of your home, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will add an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that deteriorate with time and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. It can be difficult to determine the reason for the broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
The issue could be with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop draughts. If you do not repair or replace the handle could be expensive and could cause damage to the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking the time to do it right.
Screwdriver: With the window open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic reasons. Be sure not to damage any of the internal parts within the handle, for example the plates or levers on either side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace if necessary.
Then, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once double glazing window repairs is removed, you should be capable of pulling the handle away and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or in hardware stores). Securely screw it in place. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should function smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows after a few times.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to check your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they don't cause damp and draughts in your home, as well as compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod that activates a series of cams with a mushroom shape that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle has broken This can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this issue. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively fix this problem. A reputable locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel part that houses the spindle. This can be done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any specific areas of wear or damage. This process is typically done in a clean environment by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any debris or dirt that might be obstructing its normal function. The spindle may be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. Then, he will drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements but if the style of your window is rare then it is necessary to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact model for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be positioned to the handle by line up the screw holes on the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is firmly in place, you can use your uPVC windows.