Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
It's important that your double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll be wasting energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off in a lock, it can be incredibly annoying. It can also be a security problem in that it can expose you to burglars if your door does not lock. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can use to solve the issue and get your door working correctly.
Be 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 allow the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any stuck pieces that might be blocking the way. If you have a chunk of the key still sticking out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work well, however, be cautious not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could be used as a hook extractor, and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this use. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these tricks appear to be working you, it's the time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. double glazing repairs can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. A locksmith professional can repair the cylinder. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder to repair it. This can be accomplished with the hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to use a wire or a long match. Position the match or the wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to crack it. This is superior to using a hammer, which can harm the lock.
The most frequent cause for cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made of different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. When the different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it could create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Corrosion can be a cause of fractures in cylinders. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they may corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than they would normally. Over time, this can also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, this can be the result of many things. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
This is a simple and affordable fix that the majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith is able to fix this problem within one hour of arriving at your home. Depending on your needs they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to high-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that give you an additional layer of security against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the security that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They have intricate mechanisms which deteriorate over time. If yours fails it's difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure that you repair it correctly.
Repairing your damaged handle, regardless of whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch can increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and can cause damage to the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking some time to make sure you do it right.
With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with the screwdriver. This should be located on the inside face of the back plate, normally hidden by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. Be sure to not lose any internal components inside the handle, for example the levers or plates on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, with a second screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, you can remove the handle and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Screw it in the correct position. Do not overtighten the screw as this can damage the handle and the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should function smoothly and you'll be able open your window once again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they don't close properly, you may experience damp or draughts inside your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which activates cams with a mushroom shape that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle has broken and this could be an extremely frustrating issue.
Fortunately there are ways to fix this problem. A professional locksmith can quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel part in which the spindle is. This can be done with no damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician can examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent parts and carefully recording their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is typically done in a clean environment by highly skilled technicians.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any debris or dirt that could be hindering it from functioning normally. Following this the spindle could 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. The technician will then drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual then you'll have to speak with an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can replicate the exact piece. Once the spindle has been installed, it is connected to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws that are already in the frame. Once the handle is firmly seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.