Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism broken? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You'll be wasting energy if your double-glazed doors don't function properly. This increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off within a lock, it could be extremely annoying. It can also be a security problem, as it may expose you to an intruder if the door is not locked. There are a few quick solutions you can use to fix the problem and make your door work again.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic and start poking around wildly you could end up pushing the broken piece of the key further into the lock, thereby making the situation even more difficult.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will assist the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break up any pieces that are stuck. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key that is sticking out, you can make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object that is thin to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the damaged key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't have any of these then you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers to grab and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at most hardware stores. It is used to freeze any water or ice that could be in the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to call a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door mechanisms and locks, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms so that they are more easy to use. Book a double glazing repair with us online or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a major security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for an expert locksmith to complete. To fix the cylinder locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this with an hammer or another tool, but the best method is to employ a long match or a piece of wire. The match or wire end near the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is far better than using a heavy hammer, which could harm the lock.
The most common cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made from different metals, like cast iron and aluminium. When various metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it could create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is a different reason for fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder head as well as the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, this can cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at a more than they ought to. This can lead to cracks in the future.
If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, it can be the result of many things. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and affordable fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith is able to fix this problem within one hour of arriving at the property. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which provide an additional layer of protection against burglars. It is a small cost to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that deteriorate with time and use, so it's not a surprise they occasionally break. It can be difficult to determine the reason for a broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.
Fixing the broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch will increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing the handle could be costly and may damage the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking some time to make sure you do it correctly.
Screwdriver: With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically concealed by the cap of the screw for aesthetic purposes. It is important to not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same order so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, with another screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once the screw is free, you can remove the handle and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Screw it into the correct position. Don't over tighten the screw as this can harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to make sure your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not closing properly, you could experience damp and draughts in your home, as well as compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle within the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle is attached a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a frustrating issue.
Luckily, there are options to rectify this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel portion that houses the spindle. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician will examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component part, noting any wear or damage. This process is usually carried out by technicians working in a clean environment.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from operating normally. After this, the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician could use an identical dowel size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired it may require replacement. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unusual then it will be necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact model for you. After the spindle is installed, it is connected to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle with the existing screws in the frame. Once the handle is firmly seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.