Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Maybe the window or door handles aren't aligned properly or are hard to use.
You will lose energy if your double-glazed doors don't function properly. This can also increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks within the lock, it can be extremely frustrating. It also poses an issue for security, since the door might not lock and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. Fortunately, there are quick fixes you can use to solve the problem and get your door functioning properly once more.
Keep calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the broken key piece 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 a screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you have a part of the key stuck out then grab it using a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, however, be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you do not have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grasp and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you are unable to remove the broken key piece Use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these tricks appear to be working you, it's time to call in locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix problems such as broken handles and broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to use. Request a repair for your double glazing through us online or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. Luckily, it's an easy repair for a professional locksmith to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to repair it. This can be accomplished with a hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to use a wire or a long match. Then, put the end of the match or wire in the keyway. After this, the locksmith can hit the lock to break it open. This is superior to using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
The most common cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can happen when the cylinder block and head are made of various metals, like cast iron and aluminium. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Corrosion can be a reason for cylinder fractures. If the head and block of the 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 also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires lots of pressure to turn, it can be the result of a number of things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and affordable fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith will usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the property. Depending on the needs of your home they can change the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to high-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will give you an additional layer of security against burglars. It is a small cost to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that become less effective with age and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. If yours is damaged it's difficult to determine the source of the problem and make sure you fix it correctly.
If the issue is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop the draughts. It is costly to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and can also damage the frame and lock of your door.
Screwdriver: With the window open remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, normally concealed by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. It is important to not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same order so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, using a second screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle to the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, you can remove the handle and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a new one, ensuring it's the same size as the old one (you can usually find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it into place. Do not tighten double glazing window repairs as this could harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Check that the new handle is fitted Close the window and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able to unlock your window.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're using the handle. If they're not closing properly cause damp and draughts inside 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 they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as a locking device in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod that activates a series of locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle is broken. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
There are solutions to this issue. A professional locksmith can quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A reputable 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 is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician can inspect the spindle to 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 particular areas of wear or damage. This process is typically carried out in a clean, well-lit room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or other debris that might be hindering its normal function. The spindle can be replaced or repaired. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is the same size to the original. He will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle is precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements however if your window style is rare, you will need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact piece. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be fitted to the handle by line up the screw holes on the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is firmly in place, you can use your uPVC windows.