Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It is essential that your double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll 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 quite frustrating when a key is snapped into the lock. It could also be a security risk, as the door may not be locked and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are a couple of quick fixes you can try to resolve the issue and make your door work again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
double glazing window repairs -40, or any other penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will allow the broken piece emerge more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any stuck pieces that might be blocking the way. If you have a chunk of the key that's still sticking out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, however, be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't happen to have any of these items, you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you can't get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available at most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it could be time to consult 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 reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to use. You can schedule a double-glazing repair online or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. Luckily, it's an easy repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. This can be done using a hammer or other tool. The best method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, position the match's end or wire near the keyway. The locksmith will then hit the lock to break it. This is better than using a hammer that could harm the lock.
The most frequent cause of cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. When the different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it could create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause for cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly, they can be corroded or rust, which can cause them to expand faster than anticipated. This can cause cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this can be caused by several things. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it is a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the property. Depending on your needs they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that add an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that wear out with age and usage, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the cause of the problem and repair it correctly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's an internal locking mechanism or latch can increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and could harm the door's frame as well as lock, so it's worth taking some time to do it correctly.
Screwdriver: With the window open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually concealed by the cap of the screw for aesthetic purposes. You should not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle, such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Next, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle by using another screwdriver. Once this is released, you'll be in a position to pull the handle away and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure that it's the same size as the previous one (you can typically find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and then securely screw it into the correct position. Do not tighten the screw too much because this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly installed, then close and test the handle. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly while you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing properly, you could experience draughts or damp in your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on the frames of your windows to ensure that they shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break than the handle. This is most frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which operates a locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a centre rod that triggers a set of mushroom-like locking cams, these locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it is likely that the spindle is broken, this can be a very frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently repair this problem. A professional locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel portion in which the spindle is. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel is removed the technician can then inspect the spindle and determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual components and carefully observing their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
Next, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or other debris that could be hindering it from operating normally. After this the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, he can use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. The technician will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired it may require replacement. Home centers can sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual you'll have to speak with a cabinet maker or woodworker who can make the exact component. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be attached to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.