Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to use.
It is essential that the double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off inside the lock, it can be incredibly difficult. It could also be a security problem, as it may make you vulnerable to an intruder if the door does not lock. There are fortunately quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door functioning correctly.
Remember to remain calm. If you get scared and start playing around with your keys, you might just end up pushing the damaged piece of the key further into the lock, making the situation much worse.
Next spray WD-40 or a different 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're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key that is visible it, you can use a paperclip or some other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
double glazing repair near me have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't have any of these items you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the remaining piece of the key that was broken.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available at most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present in the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems such as broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are more easy to use. You can book repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith can easily fix the cylinder. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to fix it. They can do this with the hammer or any other tool, but the best way is to employ a long match or piece of wire. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to break it. This is far better than using a heavy hammer that could cause damage to the lock.
The most common cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast iron and aluminium. When the different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it can cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause of cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder head and cylinder block are not properly maintained, it can result in corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at more than they ought to. Over time, this can also lead to 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. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common reasons for this issue.
It is a quick and inexpensive fix that most double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith will typically be able to solve this problem within an hour of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience can always advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that provide an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small amount to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that wear out with age and usage, so it's no surprise they occasionally break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason for the broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
The issue could be in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop drafts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be very expensive and could damage the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking the time to do it correctly.
Screwdriver: With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it to enhance the appearance. Be sure to not damage any of the internal components within the handle, like the plates or levers on either side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is free, you can remove the handle and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can purchase them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it into the correct position. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to check your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not cause draughts and damp in your home as well as compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the frames of your windows to ensure that they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle inside the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which is then activated by a series of cams that resemble mushrooms, which lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is likely that the spindle has been damaged, this can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this problem. A skilled locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A good locksmith can disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel from the area in which the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
Once the wheel has been removed the technician can then inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its component parts and meticulously noting their general condition as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is typically performed in a clean, well-lit room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal functioning. After that the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. The technician will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements, but if your window style is rare, you will have to speak with an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact part. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the screw holes on the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is firmly seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.