Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
You'll be wasting energy when your double-glazed doors do not perform as they should. This increases the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key is snapped into a lock. It also poses a security risk, as the door may not be locked and make you open to intrusion. There are fortunately quick fixes that you can try to resolve the problem and get your door functioning correctly.
First, remember to stay calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating oil, into the lock. This will assist the broken piece come out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break any pieces stuck. 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 then pull it out. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the damaged key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can serve as a hook extractor and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this purpose. If you don't have any of these items then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, you can use a pair tweezers to grasp and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. It is available at all hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be inside the lock.
If none of these tricks appear to be working then it's probably time to call in a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles and snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are easier to use. Get a double glazing repair through us online, or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for an expert locksmith to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. This can be accomplished with the hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. Place the match or wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can strike the lock and break it open. This is more secure than using a hammer, which can harm the lock.
The most common cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made from different metals, like cast iron and aluminum. When the different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it can cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they may rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand more than expected. In time, this could also lead to cracks.
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. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
This is a straightforward and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith will usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at your home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and replace the gearboxes, based on your specific needs. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small amount to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that deteriorate as time passes and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. If yours breaks it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it correctly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's the internal latch or the locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it can also harm the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw holding the handle with a screwdriver. It should be located on the inside of the back plate, normally covered by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. It is not recommended to lose any internal parts of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep them in the same place so you can replace them again if needed.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is free, you can take the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, making sure that it is the same length as the old one (you will typically find them on the internet or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into the right place. Do not overtighten the screw as this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It should work smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once more.
double glazing repair near me forget 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. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle within a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate a locking device in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod that activates a series of locks that are shaped like mushrooms and lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle has been damaged, this can be a frustrating problem.
Luckily, there are options to rectify this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to take out the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This is done without damaging the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed the technician can then examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent parts and meticulously noting 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. After that, the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, he can use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. The technician will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle is precisely matched to the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it might require replacement. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual, you will need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact component. Once the new spindle is in place it can be positioned to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is securely set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.