Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that your double-glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll be wasting energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off inside the lock, it can be extremely annoying. This can also be a security issue, as it may expose you to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are a couple of quick fixes you can try to fix the problem and make your door work again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
window repairs Gravesend -40 or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will assist the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you happen to have a little bit of the key that is sticking out it, you can make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object that is thin to grab it and remove it. Both of these methods work well, however, be cautious 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 are also well for this. If you don't have any of them available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. You can also use a pair of tweezers grab and remove the last piece of broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's usually available at most hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any water or ice that could be in the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix issues such as broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. Book a double glazing repair via our website, or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses an immediate security risk. A professional locksmith can easily repair the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this with a hammer or other tools, but the most effective method is to employ a long match or a piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock in order to break it. This is superior to using the hammer, which could 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 different metals, like cast iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
Corrosion can be a cause of fractures in cylinders. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained properly, they can rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. This could lead to cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of causes. This issue could be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or misalignment and also a worn out handle.
Fortunately, this is an easy and inexpensive fix for most double glazing owners. A professional locksmith can usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at your property. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes based on your specific needs. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that give you an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks could break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason for the broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
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 and allow you to stop drafts. It is costly to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw holding the handle by using the screwdriver. This should be located on the inside of the back plate, normally hidden by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement to make it simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Next, turn the handle so it's at 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle with a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you can remove the handle and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, making sure it's the same length as the previous one (you can typically find these on the internet or in hardware stores) and then securely screw it into the correct position. Be careful not to tighten too much because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is installed, then close and test the handle. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not cause draughts and damp in your home as and also affecting the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that is a lock mechanism that is located in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool to remove the wheel portion of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what 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 damage or excessive wear. This process is typically performed in a clean 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 operation. Following this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician could use the dowel that is similar in size to the original and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unique then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact component for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be positioned to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.