Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC window or door mechanism broken? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned properly or are hard to use.
It is crucial that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key is snapped inside a lock. It also poses an issue for security, since the door may not lock and could leave you open to intrusion. There are a few easy solutions you can use to resolve the issue and make your door functional again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the broken 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 that are stuck. If you have a chunk of the key stuck, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, but be very careful not to push the broken piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't have any of these items, you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair tweezers to grab and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it could be time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix problems such as broken handles and snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to operate. Book a double glazing repair through us online or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. A professional locksmith is able to repair the cylinder. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. This can be done with the hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, position the match's tip or wire close to the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to break it. This is far better than using a hammer, which 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 the cylinder head are made of different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. When the various metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it can cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is another possible reason for fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained in a timely manner, they can rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot of pressure to turn it could be due to a variety reasons. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common causes of this problem.
Fortunately it is a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. double glazing repairs will typically be able to resolve the issue within an hour of arriving at your property. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes based on your specific needs. A skilled locksmith will always be able to advise you of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which offer an additional layer of protection from burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the security that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They have complex mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It can be difficult to determine the reason behind a broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
Whether the problem is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing your broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop drafts. It is costly to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also harm the frame and lock of your door.
With the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate. It is typically concealed by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic reasons. Be sure not to lose any internal parts within the handle, such as the plates or levers that are on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same order so you can re-install them in the event of a need.
Then, rotate the handle until it's 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle with a second screwdriver. Once the screw is removed, you should be capable of pulling the handle off and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Screw it in the frame. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to make sure your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not cause damp and draughts inside your home as well as compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is especially frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate an locking device within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which activates mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this issue. A reputable locksmith can quickly and effectively fix this problem. They can take apart the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel portion of the mechanism, where the spindle is. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is typically performed in a clean, well-lit room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or other debris that could be hindering its normal function. The spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is the same size to the original. He will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements, but If the style of your window is unusual then it is necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact part for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.