Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
It is crucial that the double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off in a lock, it can be incredibly annoying. It could also be a security risk since the door might not lock and leave you vulnerable to intruders. There are a few quick fixes you can try to fix the problem and make your door work again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you may 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 come out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any stuck pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you have a chunk of the key that's stuck then grab it using a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work well, however, be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can serve as hook extractors and Jigsaw blades also work for this use. If you don't happen to have any of these items, you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and remove the last bit of the broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these methods appear to be working you, it's the time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly fix problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. You can book an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this with 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. The locksmith can then hit the lock to crack it. This is more secure than using a hammer that could harm the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made of different metals like cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals will be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand faster than the rest of the cylinder.
Corrosion is another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head as well as the block of the cylinder are not maintained properly, this could result in corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at greater rates than they should. 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 reasons. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, and also a worn out handle.
Fortunately it's a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your home. Based on your requirements, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which offer an additional security layer from burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks may break. They have complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. It can be difficult to determine the reason behind the broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
The issue could be in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop the draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be costly and may damage the door's frame and lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to do it correctly.
With the window in the open position and the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle using a screwdriver. It should be located on the inside of the back plate, and is normally concealed by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace them if needed.
Then, rotate the handle to make it 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it's the same length as the previous one (you can typically find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it in the correct position. Be careful not to overtighten as this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly fitted Close the window and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're working with the handle. If they're not then you may experience draughts and damp in your home, as well as compromising your home's energy efficiency. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break than the handle. This is most typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. double glazing window repairs require a handle that operates a locking device in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a central rod which activates cams with a mushroom shape that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a frustrating problem.
Fortunately there are steps that can be taken to remedy this situation. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and effectively fix the issue. A reputable locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel from the area where the spindle is located. This is done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can examine the spindle and identify the cause of the break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining every component, observing any damage or excessive wear. This process is typically carried out in a clean environment by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this will remove any dirt or other debris that could be hindering its normal function. Following this the spindle is cleaned, it could be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. The technician will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it could require replacement. Home centers sell generic replacements however if your window design is unique then you'll require contacting an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can recreate the exact component. After the spindle is installed, it is connected to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the handle is firmly set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.