Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are your uPVC door or window mechanism broken? Maybe the window or door handles don't meet up properly or are difficult to use.
You'll lose energy if your double-glazed doors don't work properly. This increases the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off within the lock, it can be extremely annoying. It's also potentially an issue for security, since the door may not lock and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes that you can try to resolve the problem and get your door working properly once more.
Keep calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key piece 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 make use of a screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck that might be hindering the flow. If you have a piece of the key that's stuck out, grab it with the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged 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 do not have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create a hook. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece Use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles and snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to use. Get a double glazing repair through us online or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. It's fortunately a simple repair for an expert locksmith to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to fix it. They can do this with the hammer or any other tools, but the most effective method is to make use of a long match or a piece of wire. Then, put the end of the match or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to break it. This is better than using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
The most common cause of cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the block and the cylinder head are made of various metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. When the different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Another reason that could cause cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained properly, they can corrosion or rust and cause them to expand faster than expected. Over time, this can also cause cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, it could be due to many things. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment or an old handle are the most common causes of this issue.
This is a simple and inexpensive fix that most double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith can usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at the property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, based on the specific requirements of your home. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional layer of protection from burglars. It's a small price to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that become less effective with time and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. If yours is damaged it may be difficult to identify the cause of the issue. Make sure you fix it correctly.
Fixing the broken handle, whether it's an internal locking mechanism or latch, will improve the security of your uPVC door and 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.
Screwdriver Open the window remove the screw that holds the handle. double glazing window repairs should be on the inside of the backplate, which is usually hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic purposes. It is important to not lose any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. It is best to keep them in the same order so you can replace them again if needed.
Then, using a second screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, take the handle off and take the broken spindle out. Replace this with a new one, ensuring it's the same length as the previous one (you can usually find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and then securely screw it in the correct position. Don't over tighten the screw because this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Check that the new handle is fitted after which you can close and test the handle. It should function smoothly, and you will be able open your window after a few times.
Don't forget to double-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 and draughts in your home, as well as compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle within a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is particularly common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle which acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod which 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 is turned, it is likely that the spindle has been damaged, this can be an extremely frustrating issue.
Fortunately there are options to fix this problem. A skilled 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 part of the mechanism that is where the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its constituent parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is usually performed by technicians in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal functioning. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. 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 make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements but If the style of your window is rare then it is necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact part for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it is connected to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.