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 aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You'll lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to perform as they should. This also increases the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off inside the lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It could also be a security risk, as the door may not lock and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are a few quick fixes you can make to resolve the issue and make your door functional again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and begin playing around with your keys you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key even further into the lock, making the situation even more difficult.
Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you have a part of the key that's still sticking out, grab it with the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the damaged key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't have any of these, you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair of tweezers grasp and pull out the last piece of broken keys.
If you can't get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at most hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that might be in the lock.
If none of these methods seem to be helping, it might be time to call 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 alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. You can schedule a double-glazing repair online or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. It's fortunately a simple repair for an expert locksmith to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder in order to fix 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. Then, position the match's end or wire in the keyway. The locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
The most frequent cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block and head are made from different metals, including cast iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest of the cylinder.
Corrosion can be a cause of cylinder fractures. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they could be corroded or rust and cause them to expand faster than anticipated. Over double glazing repairs , this can also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle or requires a lot of pressure to turn, this can be caused by a number of things. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
Fortunately, this is an easy and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith should be able to solve the issue within an hour after arriving at your residence. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes, based on your specific needs. A professional locksmith can always advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will add an extra layer of protection against burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that become less effective with time and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. It isn't easy to determine the cause of a broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
If the issue is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you to stop draughts. It could be costly to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw that holds the handle using a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, normally concealed by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be sure to not lose any internal components within the handle, for example the plates or levers that are on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same place so you can replace them again if needed.
Next, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle using another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or in hardware stores). Screw it in place. Don't over tighten the screw as this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not closing properly then you may experience damp and draughts in your home, as and also affecting the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is most frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate a locking device in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that is then activated by a series of cams that resemble mushrooms, which locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle has been turned, it is likely the spindle has been damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively address this issue. A professional locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel part in which the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its component parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is usually done in a clean environment by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any debris or dirt that could be hindering its normal operation. After this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, he can use a dowel that is the same size to the original. He will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements however if your window style is rare then you'll have to speak with an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can recreate the exact component. Once the spindle has been installed, it is fixed to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle with the existing screws in the frame. Once the new handle is firmly in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.