Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the door or window handles don't meet up properly or are hard to use.
It is essential that your double-glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks inside a lock, it could be extremely annoying. It could also be a security risk, as the door may not lock and could leave you vulnerable to intruders. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes you can try to resolve the problem and get your door operating properly once more.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic and begin playing around with your keys you may end up pushing the damaged piece of the key deeper into the lock, which could make the situation even more difficult.
Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break up any pieces that are stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a bit of the key left visible, you can make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object that is thin to grab it and remove it. Both methods work well, however, be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can be used as hook extractors and Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't happen to have any of these, you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the remaining part of the broken key.
If you can't get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is found in most hardware stores. It works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are easier to operate. You can schedule repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. A locksmith professional can repair the cylinder. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this using the hammer or any other tool, but the best way is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. The match or wire end near the keyway. After that, the locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is much safer than using a hammer that could harm the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the block and the cylinder head are made of different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. When the different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it could create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Another reason that could cause cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained properly they could be corroded or rust, which can cause them to expand more than anticipated. In time, this could cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this can be the result of a number of things. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, and also a worn out handle.
This is a simple and inexpensive fix that most double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith is able to solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your home. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes based on your specific needs. A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a recommendation of the most cost-effective option for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which provide an additional security layer from burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that become less effective with time and usage, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. If yours breaks it's difficult to identify the cause of the issue. Make sure that you repair it correctly.
If double glazing repairs is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you stop draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be costly and may harm the door's frame as well as lock, so it's worth taking some time to do it right.
With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually concealed by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose 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 in the event of a need.
Then, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw on the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is free, you can take the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Screw it into the correct position. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is correctly fitted Close the window and test the handle. It should operate smoothly, and you will be able open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to make sure your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they aren't closing properly, you may experience damp or draughts in your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These 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 activates mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle has been damaged, this can be a frustrating problem.
Fortunately there are steps that can be taken to rectify this issue. A reputable locksmith can quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A professional locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel portion in which the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician will inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component, noting any wear or damage. 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 assists in removing any dirt or other debris that might be hindering its normal functioning. The spindle could then 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 spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it could be required to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements, but if the style of your window is unique then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact part for you. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the screw holes on the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is in place, you can use your uPVC windows.