Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe 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 work properly. This also increases the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks inside a lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It also poses a security risk since the door may not lock and leave you open to intrusion. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes you can try to resolve the problem and get your door operating properly again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and start playing around with your keys you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key even further into the lock, thereby making the situation worse.
Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will assist the broken piece be removed more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you have a chunk of the key that is stuck and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't have any of them available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create a hook. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the last bit of the broken key.
If you cannot remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. This is usually available at most hardware stores. It works by freezing any moisture or ice that might be in the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. Get a double glazing repair via our website or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an immediate security risk. A professional locksmith can easily repair the cylinder. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to fix it. This can be done using a hammer, or any other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, place the match's tip or wire in the keyway. The locksmith can then hit the lock to crack it. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer that can harm the lock.
Overheating is the most common cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made of different metals such as cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest of the cylinder.
Corrosion is another possible reason for cylinder fractures. If the cylinder head and cylinder block are not properly maintained, it can cause corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at a a higher rate than they ought to. This can lead to cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety reasons. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common causes of this problem.
Fortunately, this is an easy and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually be able to resolve the issue within an hour of arriving at your property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and change the gearboxes, based on your particular requirements. A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a recommendation of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to 3 Star security TS007 euro cylinders that will add an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that become less effective with time and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. If yours is damaged it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure you fix it correctly.
The issue could be related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing the broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop the draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window, loosen the screw holding the handle. It should be located on the inside of the back plate, and is normally hidden by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal parts of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace them if needed.
Then, rotate the handle to make it 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle by using another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, remove the handle and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or in hardware stores). Securely screw it into place. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they don't, you could experience damp and draughts in your home as in addition to compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges on the window frames to ensure that they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle in a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is especially frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is connected to a centre rod that in turn activates mushroom-like locking cams, these lock into window frame keeps. If double glazing repair Hornchurch fails to open after the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a problem that is frustrating.
There are solutions to this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They can take apart the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel component of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting every component, observing any wear or damage. This process is usually performed by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or debris which could be hindering it from operating normally. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is the same size to the original. He will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle has an exact fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired it may require replacement. Home centers sell generic replacements, but if your window design is unusual, you will have to speak with an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can recreate the exact piece. Once the new spindle is in place it can be attached to the handle by line up the screw holes on the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the handle is securely seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.