Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC door or window mechanism broken? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It is essential that the double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks within the lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It can also be a security problem because it could make you vulnerable to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are a couple of quick fixes you can make to repair the issue and make your door work again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck. If you have a part of the key that is stuck then grab it using the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work well, however, be careful not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't have any of them handy, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Additionally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key Use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture present in the lock.
If double glazing window repairs of these solutions work, it may be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix issues such as broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can schedule a double-glazing repair online or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith can easily fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using an hammer or another tool, but the best method is to use a long match or a piece of wire. Then, put the match's tip or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to crack it. This is better than using the hammer, which could damage 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 like cast-iron and aluminum. When different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it can create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Corrosion is a different reason for fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder head and the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, it can lead to rusting or corrosion that could cause them to expand at a more than they ought to. In time, this could cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this can be the result of many things. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment, or an old handle are the most common causes of this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually be able to resolve the issue within an hour of arriving at your home. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, based on the specific requirements of your home. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to high-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that add an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They have complex mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours is damaged, it can be difficult to identify the cause of the issue and make sure you fix it properly.
Whether the problem is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop drafts. 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 do it right.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw that holds the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually concealed by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. Be sure to not damage any of the internal components inside the handle, like the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can replace them if needed.
Then, rotate the handle to make it 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle with another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, take the handle off and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Screw it into the frame. Do not tighten the screw too much as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Ensure the new handle is fitted after which you can close and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing properly, you could experience draughts or damp in your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle within a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod which in turn activates mushroom-like locking cams, these locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle has been damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle and determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual components and carefully observing their general condition as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is typically done in a clean environment by highly skilled technicians.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any debris or dirt that could be hindering it from operating normally. Following 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 comparable in size to the original. The technician will then drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it could require replacement. Home centers sell generic replacements. However, if the design of your window is unusual then it will be necessary to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact component for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be attached to the handle by lining up the screw holes on the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.