Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC window or door mechanism broken? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You'll lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not perform as they should. This also increases the likelihood of burglaries. 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 into the lock. It could also be a security problem, as it may expose you to a burglar if the door does not lock. Fortunately, there are some simple fixes you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door operating correctly.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and begin poking around wildly, you might just 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 help the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break pieces that could be blocking the way. If you happen to have a bit of the key left visible and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could serve to extract hooks, and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't happen to have any of these items then you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair tweezers to grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present inside the lock.
If none of these strategies appear to be working you, it's time to call locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly fix problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to operate. double glazing repairs can book repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a serious security risk. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. They can do this using an hammer or another tools, but the most effective way is to use an extended match or piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to break it. This is much better than using a heavy hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the main reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made from different metals, like cast iron and aluminum. Different metals will be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Another possible cause for cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained correctly they may rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand more than they would normally. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of reasons. This issue could be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, and also a worn out handle.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith is able to solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes, based on your particular requirements. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to 3 Star security Euro cylinders, TS007, that will provide an extra 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
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They have complex mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours fails it's difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure you fix it properly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch can increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and could also harm the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw that holds the handle using the screwdriver. This should be located on the inside of the back plate, which is usually hidden by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be careful not to lose any of the internal parts within the handle, such as the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace if necessary.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is free, you can pull the handle out and take the broken spindle out. Replace this with a new one, ensuring it's the same length as the previous one (you will typically find them on the internet or at hardware stores) and then securely screw it in place. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they don't then you may experience damp and draughts inside your home as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges on the frames of your windows to ensure they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as a locking device in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a central rod that activates a series of mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it is likely that the spindle has been damaged, this can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently solve the issue. They will be able to take apart the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel component of the mechanism that is where the spindle goes. This is done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel, the technician will inspect the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition as well as any particular areas of wear or damage. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or other debris that could be hindering it from functioning normally. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. If it is replaced, the technician will need an identical dowel size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle will fit 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 style is rare you'll require contacting an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can recreate the exact piece. After the spindle is installed, it can be fixed to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the handle is firmly set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.