Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
It is crucial that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key snaps into a lock. It could also be a security risk, as the door might not lock and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are a few quick solutions you can use to resolve the issue and get your door working again.
First, remember to stay calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will allow the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you have a chunk of the key that's stuck out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't happen to have one of these tools then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It is found in most hardware stores. It works by freezing any water or ice that could be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door mechanisms and locks such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are more easy to use. Book a double glazing repair through us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a serious security risk. double glazing repairs can easily fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this using an hammer or another tool, but the best way is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. The match or wire's end in the keyway. After that, the locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is much better than using a hammer that could harm the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made from different metals, like cast iron and aluminium. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.
Corrosion is a different cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly, they can rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand more than they would normally. As time passes, this may cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff or requires a lot of pressure to turn, this can be caused by several things. This can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
This is a straightforward and cost-effective fix that a majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith will usually be able to resolve the issue within an hour of arriving at your property. Based on your requirements, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to provide you with a recommendation of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which give you an extra layer of protection against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks could break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that wear out over time. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason behind the problem and fix it correctly.
If the issue is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop the draughts. It is costly to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and could also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window open then loosen the screw holding the handle by using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, which is usually hidden by a screw cap for aesthetic purposes. It is important to not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle such as the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same place so you can replace them when needed.
Next, turn 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 using another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, take the handle off and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Securely screw it in the correct position. Do not tighten the screw too much as this can harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly installed after which you can close and test the handle. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they're not then you may experience draughts and damp in your home as well as compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on the frames of your windows to ensure that they shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle in a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a central rod which triggers a set of cams that resemble mushrooms, which secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle has broken, this can be an extremely frustrating issue.
Luckily there are options to rectify this issue. A good locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively address this problem. They will be able to take apart the window handle using a tool that can remove the wheel portion of the mechanism that is where the spindle goes. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
Once the wheel has been removed the technician can then examine the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This process is usually carried out by technicians in a clean environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any debris or dirt that might be hindering its normal function. Following this the spindle could 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. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle has an exact fit with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could need to be replaced entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements, but if your window design is unusual, you will require contacting a cabinet maker or woodworker who can make the exact component. After the spindle is installed, it can be attached to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle with the existing screws in the frame. Once the handle is firmly in place, you can use your uPVC windows.