Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't able to connect properly or are difficult to use.
It is essential that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key is snapped into the lock. It can also be a security issue, as it may leave you vulnerable to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are a couple of quick fixes you can try to resolve the issue and make your door functional again.
Be calm. If you get scared and start poking around wildly you may end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, thereby making the situation much worse.
Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key hanging out, you can make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as a hook extractor and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this use. If you don't have any of them available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you are unable to remove the broken key piece Use a lock deicer. It's usually found in most 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 consult a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to use. You can book an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder is a serious security threat. A professional locksmith can easily repair the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this using a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient way is to use a long match or a piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith will strike the lock and break it open. This is superior to using a hammer that could damage the lock.
The most frequent cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals such as cast-iron and aluminium. When different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it can create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Corrosion can be a reason for cylinder fractures. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner they may be corroded or rust and cause them to expand faster than anticipated. This can cause cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. This problem can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, or a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it is a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and replace the gearboxes, depending on your particular requirements. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which give you an extra layer of protection from burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that become less effective as time passes and usage, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. It can be difficult to determine the reason behind the problem and repair it correctly.
The issue could be in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop the draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window and the screw loose, loosen the handle. It should be located on the inside of the back plate, and is normally concealed by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be careful not to lose any of the internal components inside the handle, like the levers or plates on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can re-install them in the event of a need.
Then, using an additional screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once this is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off and take off the damaged spindle. Replace this with a new one, making sure that it is the same length as the old one (you will typically find them on the internet or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into place. Do not tighten the screw too much as this can cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly installed, then close and test the handle. double glazing repair should function smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once again.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're using the handle. If they're not closing properly then you may experience damp and draughts inside your home as in addition to compromising your home's energy efficiency. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is connected to a centre rod that in turn activates cams that look like mushrooms, they lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool that can remove the wheel component of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
Once the wheel has been removed the technician can then examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its component parts and carefully recording 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.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal functioning. The spindle may 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. The technician will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic substitutes however if your window design is unique then you'll need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can make the exact piece. Once the spindle has been installed, it is fixed to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.