Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism broken? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy if your double-glazed doors don't function properly. This can also increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks in the lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It also poses an issue for security, since the door might not lock and could leave you open to intrusion. There are a few quick solutions you can use to fix the problem and make your door functional again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Then, double glazing repairs near me -40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break up any pieces that are stuck. If you have a part of the key still sticking out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the damaged key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you don't have any of them available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create a hook. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grasp and remove the remaining part of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. It's usually available at all hardware stores. It works by freezing any moisture or ice that might be in the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it could be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix problems such as broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are more easy to operate. Request a repair for your double glazing with us online or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a major security risk. A professional locksmith can easily fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this with a hammer or other tool, but the best method is to use an extended match or piece of wire. Then, place the end of the match or wire close to the keyway. The locksmith can hit the lock to break it open. This is far better than using a hammer that could damage the lock.
Overheating is the most common cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made of different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. When various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Corrosion can be a cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner they may corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than anticipated. This could lead to cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC door or window lock is brittle or requires lots of pressure to turn, this can be caused by several things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common causes of this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually be able to solve this problem within an hour after arriving at your residence. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and change the gearboxes, depending on your specific needs. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is 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. It isn't easy to determine the reason for the problem and then fix it properly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and could damage the door's frame and lock and frame, so it's worth spending the time to do it right.
Screwdriver: With the window open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the back plate, normally hidden by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. Be sure to not lose any of the internal parts within the handle, for example 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, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle with another screwdriver. 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 can usually find these online 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.
Close the handle and test it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window again.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're using the handle. If they don't, you could experience draughts and damp in your home as in addition to compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates an locking device within the window frame. The handle is attached to a rod in the centre that triggers a set of mushroom-like locking cams, these secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle has been damaged, this can be a very frustrating issue.
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to rectify this issue. A reputable locksmith can quickly and effectively fix this problem. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel part of the mechanism that is where the spindle is. This can be done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle and identify what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent parts and carefully recording their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of wear or damage. 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 will help get rid of any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from functioning normally. The spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician could use an identical dowel size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This ensures that the new spindle is precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unique then you will need to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact model for you. After the spindle is installed, it is fixed to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle to the existing screws in the frame. Once the handle is securely seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.