Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the door or window handles don't meet up properly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to work properly. This increases the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key gets stuck into a lock. It also poses a security risk since the door might not lock and make you vulnerable to intruders. There are a few easy fixes you can make to repair the issue and get your door working again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and start poking around wildly you may end up pushing the broken piece of the key deeper into the lock, making the situation much worse.
Then spray WD-40 or another 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 that are stuck. If you have a chunk of the key still sticking out then grab it using a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could serve as a hook extractor and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this function. If you don't have any of them available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Additionally, you can use a pair of tweezers grasp and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's usually found in most hardware stores. It is used to freeze any moisture or ice that might be inside the lock.
If none of these methods are working then it's probably time to call in a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. A locksmith professional can repair the cylinder. A locksmith must tap the cylinder in order to repair it. This can be done with a hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to use a wire or a long match. The match or wire's end in the keyway. After this, the locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using a hammer that could damage the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the block and cylinder head are made of different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. Different metals can be heated and cool at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest.
Corrosion is another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained correctly, they can corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than anticipated. This can lead to cracks in the future.
If double glazing repair or door lock is brittle and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
This is a simple and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith will typically be able to solve this problem within an hour of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will give you an additional layer of security against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that become less effective as time passes and use, so it's not a surprise that they sometimes break. It can be difficult to determine the reason for a broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.
Whether the problem is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing the broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you stop drafts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and can also harm the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw that holds the handle by using a screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually concealed by a screw cap for aesthetic purposes. Be sure to not lose any internal components within the handle, like the plates or levers on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can replace them in the event of a need.
Then, with a second screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is loose, you can remove the handle and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, making sure that it's the same length as the previous one (you will typically find them on the internet or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into the right place. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly fitted after which you can close and test the handle. It should function smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows after a few times.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing correctly, you could encounter damp or draughts inside your home. It could also affect 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 likely for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an electronic locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod which activates locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle has broken and this could be a very frustrating issue.
Fortunately there are ways to rectify this issue. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively fix this problem. They can take apart the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel component of the mechanism, where the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician will examine the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual parts and meticulously noting their general condition as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. The process is carried out in a clean, well-lit room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or other debris that could be hindering its normal functioning. After this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is comparable in size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to 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 centres sell generic substitutes but if the window style is rare, you will require contacting an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can recreate the exact part. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be attached to the handle by lining up the screw holes on the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.