Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned properly or are hard to use.
It is crucial that the double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key snaps inside a lock. It could also be a security problem, as it may leave you vulnerable to a burglar if the door is not locked. There are a couple of quick solutions you can use to repair the issue and make your door functional again.
First, remember to stay calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Then spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break any pieces stuck. If you have a part of the key that is still sticking out then grab it using the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you don't have any of these items you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. You can also use a pair tweezers to grasp and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these strategies are working then it's probably time to call in locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to use. Get a double glazing repair with us online or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be an extremely risky security issue. Luckily, it's an easy repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. This can be accomplished with a hammer, or any other tool. However, the best method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Then, place the match's end or wire close to the keyway. After that, the locksmith will strike the lock and break it open. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer, which could harm the lock.
The most common cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block and head are made from different metals, such as cast iron and aluminium. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest.
Corrosion is another possible reason for cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head as well as cylinder block are not maintained properly, this could cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at a higher rate than they ought to. Over time, this can also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of reasons. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or the wear of the handle are typical causes of this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith can usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at the home. Depending on the needs of your home, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that provide an extra layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They have intricate mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours breaks it may be difficult to identify the cause of the issue and make sure you fix it properly.
Whether the problem is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you stop draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver: With the window open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, which is usually covered by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be sure not to lose any internal components within the handle, such as the levers or plates on either side of the spindle. It is best to keep them in the same order so you can re-install them when needed.
Then, rotate 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, you should be capable of pulling the handle away and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can find them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it in the correct position. Do not overtighten the screw as this can cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly fitted Close the window and test the handle. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly while you're working with the handle. If they don't cause damp and draughts in your home as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of your window frames to ensure they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle inside a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate an locking device within the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod which activates locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool to remove 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 can examine the spindle and identify what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining every component, observing any wear or damage. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in an environment that is clean.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or other debris that might be preventing it from working normally. The spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician will need a dowel of a similar size to the original and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. double glazing repairs near me ensures that the new spindle has precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements but if the design of your window is unique then it will be necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact component for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be fixed to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the handle is securely in place, you can use your uPVC windows.