Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the window or door handles aren't aligned properly 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 fix your door lock at reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks inside a lock, it could be incredibly frustrating. It can also be a security risk because it could make you vulnerable to an intruder if the door is not locked. There are a few quick fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door working again.
Be calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will assist the broken piece to come out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key that is hanging out, you can make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object that is thin to grab it and then pull it out. 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 could be used as a hook extractor and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't have any of these items you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present in the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door locks and mechanisms such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. Get a double glazing repair with us online, or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. Luckily, it's an easy repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. This can be done with a hammer or other tool. The best method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, put the match's end or wire close to the keyway. The locksmith can hit the lock to break it open. This is more secure than using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Corrosion is another possible reason for fractures in cylinders. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained properly they may corrosion or rust and cause them to expand more than anticipated. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of causes. This issue could be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
This is a simple and affordable fix that the majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith should be able to solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs they can change the locking mechanism, change the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which give you an extra layer of protection against burglars. It is a small cost to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that become less effective with time and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. It isn't easy to determine the reason behind a broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
The issue could be in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you stop drafts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing your handle can be expensive and could harm the door's frame as well as lock and frame, so it's worth spending the time to do it right.
Screwdriver: With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, and is normally hidden by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. It is important to not lose any internal components of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can replace them if needed.
Then, with another screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once the screw is free, you can remove the handle and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, ensuring it's the same length as the old one (you will typically find them on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it into place. Be careful not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is installed, then close and test the handle. It should work smoothly and you'll be able open your window once again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to check your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not closing properly cause damp and draughts in your home, as in addition to compromising your home's energy efficiency. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle within the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that in turn activates cams that look like mushrooms, they locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle has been turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a frustrating problem.
Luckily, 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, where the spindle goes. This is done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
Once the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting every component, observing any damage or excessive wear. This process is usually performed by technicians in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or other debris that could be hindering its normal operation. After that the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician can take the dowel that is similar in size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle is a precise fit with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the design of your window is unique then you will need to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact part for you. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be fitted to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once double glazing repairs near me is firmly set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.