Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism not working properly? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
You'll be wasting energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to work properly. This also increases the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock for a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off in a lock, it could be extremely frustrating. It could also be a security problem, as it may leave you vulnerable to burglars if your door does not lock. There are fortunately quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door operating properly again.
The first step is to remain calm. If double glazing repairs panic you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any pieces stuck that might be blocking the way. If you happen to have a little bit of the key left sticking out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and then pull it out. Both of these methods work, but be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't have any of them handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers to bend and create a hook. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and remove the remaining part of the broken key.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at all hardware stores. It is used to freeze any moisture or ice that might be in the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it might be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to 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 so that they are simpler to use. You can book a double-glazing repair online or contact us 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 an expert locksmith to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this with a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient way is to employ a long match or a piece of wire. The match or wire end near the keyway. After this, the locksmith will strike the lock and break it open. This is better than using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
The most common cause of cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made of different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand faster than the rest.
Corrosion is another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly they could be corroded or rust and cause them to expand more than anticipated. In time, this could also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires a lot of pressure to turn, it can be caused by several things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical causes of this problem.
Fortunately, this is an easy and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith should be able to solve this issue within a matter of hours after arriving at your residence. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on your particular requirements. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to 3 Star security Euro cylinders, TS007, that will add an extra layer of security against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that deteriorate with age and usage, so it's no surprise they occasionally break. It can be difficult to determine the reason for the broken window handle lock and repair 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 could be costly to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle using the screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate. It is typically concealed by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic reasons. It is important to not lose any internal components of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can replace them again if needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle at the back. Once the screw is loose, you can take the handle off and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can find them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it into the frame. Do not tighten the screw too much as this can cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Check that the new handle is installed after which you can close and test the handle. It should work smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows once more.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut correctly while you're working with the handle. 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 able to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that triggers a set 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 has been damaged and this could be a very frustrating issue.
Luckily, there are options to remedy this situation. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently solve the issue. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel part of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This is done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle and determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking the spindle into its constituent parts and carefully recording their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is typically carried out in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this will remove any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal function. The spindle 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. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it could be required to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window style is rare then you'll require contacting an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can replicate the exact component. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be attached to the handle by line up the screw holes on the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.