Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Maybe the window or door handles aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It's important that your double-glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off within a lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It's also potentially an issue for security, since the door may not be locked and leave you open to intrusion. There are a couple of quick fixes you can make to fix the problem and get your door working again.
Remember to remain calm. If you get scared and start doing a lot of fumbling around you could end up pushing the broken piece of the key further into the lock, thereby making the situation worse.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you have a part of the key that's stuck, grab it with the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, but be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend and create hooks. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the remaining part of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It is found in most hardware stores. It works by freezing any moisture or ice that might be inside the lock.
If none of these tricks seem to be helping then it's probably time to call in a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix problems such as broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can schedule a double-glazing repair online or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder is an extremely risky security issue. It's fortunately a simple repair for a professional locksmith to complete. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder to repair it. They can do this with an hammer or another tool, but the most efficient way is to make use of a long match or a piece of wire. Then, place the match's end or wire in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to crack it. This is superior to using a hammer that could damage the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made of different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
Corrosion is a different cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly they may be corroded or rust, which can cause them to expand more than they would normally. This can cause cracks in the future.
If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires a lot more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of causes. A defective 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 double glazing owners. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, based on your particular requirements. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that deteriorate as time passes and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. If yours breaks it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure you fix it correctly.
If the issue is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop the draughts. If you do not repair or replace the handle could be costly and may harm the door's frame as well as lock, so it's worth taking some time to make sure you do it correctly.
With the window open then loosen the screw that secures the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the back plate, and is normally concealed by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. Be careful not to lose any of the internal components inside the handle, such as the levers or plates on either side of the spindle. double glazing repair near me is best to keep them in the same order so you can replace them again if needed.
Then, using another screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle with the spindle at the back. Once this is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it's the same size as the old one (you can typically find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it in place. Do not overtighten the screw as this can cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Close the handle and test it. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able to open your window again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to make sure your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they don't close properly, you could experience draughts or damp in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames to ensure they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle in the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which acts as a locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod which is then activated by a series of cams that resemble mushrooms, which secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle has broken and this could be a very frustrating issue.
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to remedy this situation. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently fix this problem. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool that can remove the wheel component of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This is done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual components and carefully observing their general condition, as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically performed by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
Next, clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or debris which could be hindering it from functioning normally. The spindle may be replaced or repaired. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is similar in size to the original. The technician will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could require replacement. Home centers can sell generic replacements however if your window style is rare you'll need to contact an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can replicate the exact piece. After the spindle is installed, it is connected to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle to the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.