Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the door or window handles don't meet up correctly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to work properly. This can also increase the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key gets stuck into a lock. It's also potentially a security risk since the door may not lock and make you vulnerable to burglars. There are a couple of quick fixes you can try to resolve the issue and make your door work again.
First, remember to stay calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will help the broken piece come out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any stuck pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you're fortunate enough to have a bit of the key that is visible, you can make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and pull it out. Both of these methods work well, however, be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can work in a pinch to extract hooks, and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't happen to have any of these items you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the last bit of the broken key.
If you are unable to remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. It is found in most hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any moisture or ice that might be in the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems such as broken handles and snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are more easy to use. Request a repair for your double glazing via our website or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a major security risk. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths 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 tip or wire near the keyway. The locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is much better than using a hammer that could damage the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest of the cylinder.
Another reason that could cause cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner, they can be corroded or rust and cause them to expand more than anticipated. As time passes, this may also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires a lot of pressure to turn, this can be caused by several things. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common causes of this issue.
This is a simple and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith can usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at your home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes based on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a recommendation of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which provide an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
double glazing repairs near me have intricate mechanisms that become less effective with age and use, so it's not a surprise they occasionally break. It isn't easy to determine the cause of the problem and then fix it properly.
The issue could be related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop drafts. It could be costly to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window in the open position then loosen the screw holding the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually concealed by the cap of the screw for aesthetic purposes. Be careful not to lose any internal parts within the handle, like the plates or levers on either side of the spindle. It is best to keep them in the same order so you can replace them again in the event of a need.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw on the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle by using another screwdriver. Once this is loose, you should be capable of pulling the handle away and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it is the same length as the previous one (you can typically find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and then securely screw it into the correct position. Do not tighten the screw too much as this can cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly installed after which you can close and test the handle. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they don't, you could experience draughts and damp in your home as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is particularly frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod that activates a series of mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. 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 a frustrating problem.
Luckily there are steps that can be taken to remedy this situation. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They will be able to disassemble the window handle by using a tool that can remove the wheel component of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This can be done with no 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 breaking the spindle into its constituent components and carefully observing their general condition as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically performed by technicians in a clean environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal functioning. The spindle may then be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, he can use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could need to be replaced entirely. Home centres sell generic substitutes, but if your window style is rare, you will need to contact an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can make the exact piece. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be fixed to the handle. Place 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.