Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to use.
It is essential that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock at reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key gets stuck into the lock. It also poses a security risk since the door may not lock and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are fortunately simple fixes you can try to resolve the problem and get your door functioning correctly.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will help the broken piece come out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key left sticking out it, you can make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work well, however, be cautious not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can work in a pinch as a hook extractor and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this use. If you don't happen to have any of these items then you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers to grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture present in the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it may be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to use. Book a double glazing repair via our website, or give us a call 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 professional locksmiths to complete. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. This can be accomplished with a hammer, or any other tool. The best method is to use a wire or a long match. Then, put the match's end or wire in the keyway. The locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using the hammer, which could harm the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of different metals, like cast iron and aluminium. When the different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Corrosion is another possible reason for fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder head as well as the block of the cylinder are not properly maintained, this can lead to rusting or corrosion and cause them to expand at a a higher rate than they should. This could lead to cracks in the future.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith should be able solve this problem within an hour of arriving at your property. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes based on the specific requirements of your home. 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 3 Star security Euro cylinders, TS007, that will give you an additional layer of protection against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours is damaged it may be difficult to determine the source of the issue. Make sure you fix it correctly.
If the issue is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you stop draughts. It can be expensive to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, and is normally hidden by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. Be sure to not lose any of the internal components within the handle, like the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep Spalding window repair in the same order so you can replace them again if needed.
Next, turn the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle using another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you can take the handle off and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can find them online or in hardware stores). Screw it into the correct position. Be careful not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is fitted, then close and test the handle. It should work smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to make sure your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they're not closing properly, you could experience damp or draughts inside your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate an locking device within the window frame. The handle is attached to a rod in the centre that in turn activates cams that look like mushrooms, they secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it is likely that the spindle has been damaged This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool that can remove the wheel portion of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can examine the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component, noting any damage or excessive wear. The process is done in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal functioning. Following this the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it is being replaced the technician will need the dowel that is similar in size to the original and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This ensures that the new spindle is a precise fit with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it might require replacement. Home centers offer generic replacements, but If the style of your window is rare then you will need to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact model for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the holes for screws in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.