Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't able to connect properly or are hard to use.
You'll be wasting energy if your double-glazed doors don't function properly. This increases the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks inside a lock, it could be extremely frustrating. It could also be a security risk since the door may not be locked and make you vulnerable to burglars. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door operating correctly.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will help the broken piece to emerge more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any stuck pieces that could be blocking the way. If you happen to have a little bit of the key visible 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 very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have 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 then you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, double glazing repair of tweezers is a good way to grip and remove the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key Use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present in the lock.
If none of these tricks appear to be working then it's probably time to call in locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems such as broken handles and broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to operate. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a serious security risk. A professional locksmith can easily repair the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. This can be done using a hammer or other tool. The best method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, position the match's end or wire close to the keyway. After that, the locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is far better than using a hammer that can harm the lock.
The most frequent cause for cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made of different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. When different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it can create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is another possible cause of fractures in cylinders. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained correctly they could be corroded or rust, which can cause them to expand more than expected. This could lead to cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, or a worn-out handle.
It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith can usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at your property. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on your specific needs. A skilled 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 offer an additional layer of protection from burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It can be difficult to determine the reason for the broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.
Fixing the broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or the locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It is costly to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window open then loosen the screw that holds the handle with the screwdriver. This should be located on the inside face of the back plate, and is normally concealed by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal components of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same order to make it simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, turn the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle by using another screwdriver. Once this is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle away and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Securely screw it in place. Don't over tighten the screw as this can harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It should function smoothly, and you will be able to open your window once again.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're working with the handle. If they're not closing correctly, you could encounter draughts or damp in your home. You could also compromise 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 to ensure they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod that triggers the locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a frustrating problem.
Luckily there are options to remedy this situation. A reputable locksmith can quickly and effectively address this issue. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel portion of the mechanism, where the spindle is. This is done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician will inspect the spindle to determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking the spindle into its constituent parts and carefully recording their general condition as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is usually carried out by technicians working in a clean environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This helps eliminate any dirt or debris that might be obstructing its normal function. After that the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician could use an identical dowel size to the original and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This ensures that the new spindle has precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might require replacement completely. Home centers sell generic replacements, but if the design of your window is unique then it will be necessary to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact component for you. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be fitted to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the handle is firmly set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.