Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't able to connect properly or are hard to use.
It is crucial that your double-glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll be wasting energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks within the lock, it can be extremely frustrating. It could also be a security issue in that it can leave you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. There are a few easy fixes you can try to repair the issue and get your door working again.
Remember to remain double glazing repairs . If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key that's still sticking out, grab it with the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Also, a pair tweezers is a good way to grip and remove the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It's available at most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it could be time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems such as broken handles and snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to use. Book a double glazing repair via our website, or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a major security risk. A professional locksmith is able to repair the cylinder. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. They can do this using a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient method is to make use of an extended match or piece of wire. Then, position the match's tip or wire near the keyway. After this, the locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is much better than using a heavy hammer that could cause damage to 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 various metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. When the different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause for cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly, they can corrosion or rust and cause them to expand more than anticipated. As time passes, this may cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, it can be the result of several things. This can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will typically be able to resolve the issue within an hour of arriving at your home. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, based on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to 3 Star security Euro cylinders, TS007, that will give you an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that wear out with time and usage, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. If yours breaks it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the problem and make sure that you repair it correctly.
If the issue is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop the draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver When the window is open remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually hidden by a screw cap for aesthetic purposes. It is not recommended to lose any internal parts of the handle, such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once this is released, you'll be in a position to pull the handle off and take off the damaged spindle. Replace this with a new one, making sure it is the same length as the previous one (you can typically find these on the internet or in hardware stores) and then securely screw it into the correct position. Do not tighten the screw too much because this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly fitted Close the window and test the handle. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to make sure your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not closing properly then you may experience damp and draughts inside your home, as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle inside the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an locking device within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which is then activated by a series of cams that look like mushrooms, they locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle is broken, this can be a frustrating problem.
Luckily, there are options to rectify this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this problem. A professional locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel from the area in which the spindle is. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the frame of the window.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician will inspect the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is usually done in a clean environment by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal functioning. Following this the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. He will then drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle has precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers offer 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 duplicate the exact model for you. After the spindle is installed, it is attached to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the existing screws in the frame. Once the handle is securely in place, you can use your uPVC windows.