Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors are not 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 likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off in the lock, it can be incredibly annoying. This can also be a security issue because it could expose you to burglars if your door does not lock. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can use to solve the problem and get your door functioning correctly.
Keep calm. If you panic and begin doing a lot of fumbling around, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, making the situation much worse.
Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece 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 careful not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend and create a hook. You can also use a pair tweezers to grab and remove the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. This is usually found in most hardware stores. It is used to freeze any moisture or ice that may be in the lock.
If none of these methods are working you, it's time to call locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are easier to operate. Book a double glazing repair via our website, or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. A locksmith must tap the cylinder in order to repair it. They can do this using a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient method is to make use of a long match or piece of wire. Then, put the match's tip or wire close to the keyway. After this, the locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is more secure than using the hammer, which could harm the lock.
The most common cause of cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can happen when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of various metals, like cast iron and aluminium. When different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Corrosion can be a reason for cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained properly they could 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 door or window lock is brittle or requires a lot of pressure to turn, this could be due to a number of things. This issue could result from a defective locking mechanism or misalignment or a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it is a simple and inexpensive fix for most double glazing owners. A professional locksmith should be able solve the issue within an hour double glazed window near me of arriving at your property. Based on your requirements, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will provide an extra layer of protection against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the security that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks can break. They have complex mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It isn't easy to determine the reason for the broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
Whether the problem is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, repairing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you stop draughts. It is costly to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver When the window is open remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by the cap of the screw to enhance the appearance. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep double glazing companies near me them in the same order so you can replace them again more info if needed.
Next, turn the handle so it's at 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, take the handle off and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it is the same length as the previous one (you will typically find them online or in hardware stores) and then securely screw it in place. Don't over tighten the screw as this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is fitted Close the window and test the handle. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're working with the handle. If they're not closing properly cause draughts and damp in your home, as and also affecting the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges on the frames of your windows to here ensure that they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break rather than the handle. 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 that triggers the cams with a mushroom shape that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle is broken and this could be a very frustrating issue.
Luckily there are options to fix this problem. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively address this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel part that houses the spindle. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can examine the spindle to determine the reason for its break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining every double glazed windows near me component, observing any damage or excessive wear. This process is usually carried out by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or other debris that might be hindering its normal function. The spindle may be replaced or repaired. If it's being replaced, the technician will need the dowel that is similar in size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle is a precise fit with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic substitutes however if your window design is unusual, you will need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can make the exact piece. After the spindle is installed, it can be connected to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle with the screws that are already in the frame. Once the handle is firmly set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.