Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You'll be wasting energy if your double-glazed doors don't function properly. This can also increase the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off within the lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It's also potentially a security risk since the door may not be locked and could leave you open to intrusion. There are fortunately quick fixes you can try to resolve the problem and get your door operating properly once more.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key further into the lock.
Next, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break pieces that might be blocking the way. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key visible it, you can make use of a paperclip or other metal object that is thin to grab it and remove it. Both of these methods work well, but be very careful not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't have any of these items you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the last piece of the key that was broken.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture present in the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. Request a repair for your double glazing via our website or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. A professional locksmith can easily repair the cylinder. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to fix it. They can do this using the hammer or any other tool, but the most efficient way is to employ a long match or piece of wire. Then, put the match's end or wire in the keyway. After this, the locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer that could damage the lock.
Overheating is the main reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of various metals, such as cast iron and aluminium. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
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 rust or corrode and cause them to expand more than anticipated. As time passes, this may also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of causes. This problem can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism, or misalignment and also a worn out handle.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith should be able solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your home. Depending on the needs of your home they can change the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which give you an extra layer of protection from burglars. It's a small amount to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They have complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours is damaged, it can be difficult to determine the source of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
If the issue is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you to stop draughts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing your handle can be very costly and may harm the door's frame as well as lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to make sure you do it correctly.
With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle by using a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, which is usually concealed by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic purposes. Be sure not to lose any of the internal components inside the handle, like the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, rotate the handle until it's 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you should be capable of pulling the handle away and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it's the same length as the previous one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and screw it securely into place. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able to unlock your window.
While double glazing window repairs working on the handle, don't forget to make sure your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not closing properly, you may experience draughts or damp 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 in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle inside the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most typical 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 connected to a centre rod that is then activated by a series of cams that look like mushrooms, they secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
Fortunately there are ways to remedy this situation. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently fix this problem. A good locksmith can disassemble the window's handle using a tool to remove the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This process is usually carried out by technicians 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 could be hindering its normal functioning. The spindle may then be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle it is possible to use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be required to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements but if the style of your window is unusual then it is necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact model for you. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be attached to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the handle is securely seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.