Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
It is essential that your double-glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll be wasting energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key gets stuck inside the lock. It could also be a security problem because it could make you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. Fortunately, there are quick fixes you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door working properly once more.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
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 a screwdriver to help break up any pieces stuck that might be hindering the flow. If you have a piece of the key that is still sticking out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, however, be cautious not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could serve as hook extractors and some Jigsaw blades also work for this use. If you don't happen to have one of these tools you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Also, a pair tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the last piece of the key that was broken.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It's usually available at all hardware stores. It works by freezing any water or ice that could be inside the lock.
If none of these strategies are working then it's probably time to call locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder is an extremely risky security issue. A locksmith professional can repair the cylinder. To repair the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this with a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient method is to employ a long match or a piece of wire. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. After that, the locksmith will strike the lock and break it open. This is much better than using a heavy hammer, which could harm the lock.
Overheating is the main cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made of different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. When various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is another possible reason for cylinder fractures. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained correctly they may corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. In time, this could also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common causes of this issue.
It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can do. double glazing repair will usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at the property. Depending on the needs of your home, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that offer an additional layer of protection from burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks can break. They have 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.
Fixing your broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or the locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of 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.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw that secures the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate. It is typically covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. It is best to keep them in the same order so you can re-install them in the event of a need.
Then, using a second screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle at the back. Once the screw is free, you can take the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Securely screw it in the frame. Do not overtighten the screw because this could harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to check your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not cause damp and draughts inside your home as in addition to compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate a locking device in the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle has been damaged, this can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this problem. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively fix this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to take out the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle and identify what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component, noting any damage or excessive wear. The process is carried out in a clean, well-lit room by 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. The spindle can be replaced or repaired. If it is replaced, the technician will need a dowel of a similar size to the original and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could need to be replaced entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unique then it will be necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact model for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be fixed to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle to the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is firmly seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.