Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Maybe the window or door handles aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
It's important that the double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key snaps into a lock. This can also be a security problem, as it may expose you to a burglar if the door is not locked. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door operating properly once more.
Be calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Then 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 the screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you have a chunk of the key that's stuck out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you can't get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these tricks are working then it's probably the time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can request repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder to fix it. This can be accomplished with a hammer, or any other tool. However, the most effective method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Place the match or wire's end close to the keyway. After that, the locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using the hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the cylinder block and head are made of different metals, such as cast iron and aluminium. When various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause for cylinder cracks is corrosion. When the cylinder head and the block of the cylinder are not maintained properly, this could lead to rusting or corrosion and cause them to expand at a greater rates than they ought to. Over time, this can also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, this could be due to a number of things. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment, or an old handle are the most common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately, this is an easy and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually be able to solve this problem within an hour of arriving at your property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on your specific needs. A professional locksmith will be able to inform you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that provide an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that wear out with age and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the cause of the problem and repair it correctly.
Whether the problem is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you to stop the draughts. It could be costly to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw holding the handle by using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, which is usually concealed by the cap of the screw for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to lose any internal components of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep them in the same order so you can replace them again if needed.
Then, with an additional screwdriver loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, you can take the handle off and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Securely screw it in place. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly fitted after which you can close and test the handle. double glazing window repairs should work smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once again.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're working with the handle. If they're not closing properly, you could experience draughts and damp in your home, as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle inside the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that acts as a locking mechanism within the frame of the window. 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 is not able to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle has broken and this could be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A good locksmith can disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel portion in which the spindle is. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its constituent parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any specific areas of wear or damage. The process is carried out in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any debris or dirt that could be hindering it from operating normally. After this, the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle it is possible to use a dowel that is the same size to the original. He will then drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic replacements. However, if the style of your window is unique then you will need to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact component for you. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be attached to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is in place, you can use your uPVC windows.