Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't able to connect properly or are hard to use.
You'll lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to perform as they should. This increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key snaps into a lock. It could also be a security risk since the door may not lock and make you open to intrusion. There are a few easy solutions you can use to resolve the issue and get your door working again.
First, remember to stay calm. If you get scared and start playing around with your keys you could end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, making the situation much worse.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will allow the broken piece to come out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any pieces stuck that could be blocking the way. If you're lucky enough to have a bit of the key hanging out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work well, however, be cautious not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can be used to extract hooks, and some Jigsaw blades also work for this function. If you don't have any of these items, you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you can't get the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at most hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that might be in the lock.
If none of these strategies appear to be working you, it's the time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are easier to operate. Book a double glazing repair with us online, or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. 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. This can be done with a hammer, or any other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. Position the match or the wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is much better than using a heavy hammer, which could damage the lock.
The most common cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can happen when the block and the cylinder head are made of various metals, such as cast-iron or 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 is a different cause of fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder head as well as the block of the cylinder are not maintained properly, this could result in corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at a a higher rate than they should. Over time, this can also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot of pressure to turn it could be due to a variety reasons. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical causes of this issue.
It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith is able to fix this problem within one hour of arriving at your home. Depending on the needs of your home they can change the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will give you an additional layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks can break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours fails, it can be difficult to identify the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and prevent draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and could cause damage to the door's frame and lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to make sure you do it correctly.
With the window in the open position and the window open, loosen the screw that holds the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, normally covered by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be sure not to damage any of the internal components inside the handle, like the levers or plates on either side of the spindle. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, with another screwdriver loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle at the back. Once double glazing repairs is removed, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can find them online or in hardware stores). Screw it in place. Be careful not to tighten too much because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly fitted Close the window and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they're not closing properly then you may experience draughts and damp in your home, as in addition to compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of the frames of your windows to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially 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 connected to a centre rod that triggers a set of cams that resemble mushrooms, which lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this problem. A reputable locksmith can quickly and effectively fix this issue. A good locksmith can disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel from the area in which the spindle is. This can be done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
Once the wheel is removed the technician can then inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. The process is carried out in a clean environment by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or other debris that might be hindering its normal operation. After this the spindle is cleaned, it could 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. He will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements. However, if the style of your window is unique then it is necessary to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can make the exact model for you. After the spindle is installed, it can be attached to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle with the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.