Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You'll be wasting energy if your double-glazed doors don't work properly. This can also increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key is snapped into the lock. It could also be a security risk because it could leave you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. There are a few quick solutions you can use to fix the problem and make your door work again.
Keep calm. If double glazing repairs near me panic you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break any pieces stuck. If you happen to have a small piece of the key that is hanging out, you can use a paperclip or some other metal object that is thin to grab it and remove it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged key piece 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 happen to have any of these items, you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and remove the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at most hardware stores, and it works by freezing any water or ice that could be in the lock.
If none of these strategies appear to be working then it's probably the time to contact locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix issues such as broken handles and 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 request a double-glazing repair online or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder is a serious security threat. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for a professional locksmith to complete. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. This can be accomplished with a hammer, or any other tool. However, the most effective method is to use a wire or a long match. The match or wire end near the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is better than using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
Another reason that could cause cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the cylinder head as well as cylinder block are not properly maintained, it can cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at a a higher rate than they should. This could lead to cracks in the future.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of reasons. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common causes of this issue.
This is a simple and affordable fix that the majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith will usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the home. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes, depending on your particular requirements. A professional locksmith can always advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to 3 Star security TS007 euro cylinders that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They have intricate mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours is damaged, it can be difficult to identify the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
Fixing the broken handle, whether it's an internal locking mechanism or latch will increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It could be 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.
Screwdriver When the window is open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate. It is typically covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic purposes. Be sure not to damage any of the internal parts within the handle, such as the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace them if needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver take the screw off that holds the handle to the spindle in the back. Once this is released, you'll be capable of pulling the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it is the same length as the previous one (you will typically find them on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it into place. Be careful not to tighten too much because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window after a few times.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're using the handle. If they're not then you may experience damp and draughts inside your home, as well as compromising your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of your window frames to ensure that they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle in the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which in turn activates mushroom-like locking cams, these secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle is broken This can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this problem. They will be able to disassemble the window handle by using a tool that removes the wheel portion of the mechanism that is where the spindle goes. This is done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
Once the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining every component, observing any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians working in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or debris which may be obstructing it from functioning normally. After that the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it is being replaced the technician will need a dowel of a similar size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic replacements but If the style of your window is rare then it will be necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact part for you. After the spindle is installed, it is connected to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.