Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the window or door handles don't meet up properly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that the double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off in a lock, it can be extremely frustrating. It's also potentially a security risk, as the door may not be locked and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are a few easy fixes you can try to fix the problem and get your door working again.
The first step is to remain calm. If double glazing repairs near me panic you may end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will help the broken piece come out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any stuck pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you have a piece of the key still sticking out, grab it with a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both methods are effective, but you need to 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 are also well for this. If you don't have any of them available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend and create a hook. Also, a pair tweezers can be used to grip and remove the remaining piece of the key that was broken.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it might be time to call a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. You can schedule an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose an extremely risky security issue. It's fortunately a simple repair for a professional locksmith to complete. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this using the hammer or any other tool, but the best method is to employ a long match or a piece of wire. Then, put the match's end or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to crack it. This is much better than using a heavy hammer that can harm the lock.
Overheating is the main reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. When various metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it could create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is a different cause of cylinder fractures. When the cylinder head and cylinder block are not properly maintained, it can cause corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at a more than they should. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, it could be due to several things. This problem can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism, or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
Fortunately, this is an easy and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith is able to solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the property. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith will be able to inform you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which provide an additional security layer from burglars. It's a small amount to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason behind the problem and repair it correctly.
Fixing your broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing the handle could be expensive and can harm the door's frame as well as lock, so it's worth taking some time to make sure you do it right.
With the window in the open position then loosen the screw that secures the handle using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic reasons. Be sure to not lose any internal components within the handle, like the plates or levers that are on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same place so you can re-install them when needed.
Then, with another screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle to the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, take the handle off and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can find them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it into place. Do not overtighten the screw as this can harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing properly, you may experience draughts or damp in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the frames of your windows to ensure that they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod that triggers the locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a frustrating problem.
Luckily there are options to fix this problem. A skilled locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel part that houses the spindle. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This process is typically done in a clean environment by skilled technicians.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or debris which could be hindering it from working normally. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. If it is replaced, the technician will need the dowel that is similar in size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might need to be replaced entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unusual then you will need to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact component for you. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the holes for screws in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is firmly set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.