Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to perform as they should. This also increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key is snapped inside a lock. It's also potentially a security risk since the door may not lock and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are fortunately quick fixes you can use to solve the issue and get your door working correctly.
Be calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any stuck pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you're lucky enough to have a little bit of the key that is hanging out it, you can make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and then pull it out. Both of these methods work well, but be careful not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you do not have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Finally, 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 then you can use a lock deicer. It's usually available at most hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any water or ice that could be in the lock.
If none of these tricks appear to be working you, it's time to call in a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door locks and mechanisms such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. Request a repair for your double glazing via our website or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. Luckily, it's an easy repair for an expert locksmith to complete. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. This can be done using a hammer, or any other tool. However, the best method is to use a wire or a long match. Position the match or the wire end near the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock in order to break it. This is much better than using a hammer that can harm the lock.
Overheating is the most common cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder block and head are made of different metals, including cast iron and aluminium. When the various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Another reason that could cause cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. When the cylinder head and the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, this can result in corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at greater rates than they should. Over time, this can also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires a lot more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of causes. This problem can result from a defective locking mechanism, or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
It is a quick and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the home. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and change the gearboxes, based on the specific requirements of your home. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. Salford double glazing repair can also suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will add an extra layer of protection against burglars. It's a small amount to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks can break. They have intricate mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It can be difficult to determine the cause of the problem and fix it correctly.
Fixing your broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism will increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing the handle could be expensive and can damage the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking the time to do it right.
Screwdriver Open the window and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically hidden by a screw cap for aesthetic purposes. Be sure to not damage any of the internal components inside the handle, like the levers or plates on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can replace them again if needed.
Then, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Screw it into the correct position. Do not overtighten the screw as this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window again.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to check your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they're not closing properly then you may experience damp and draughts inside your home as and also affecting your home's energy efficiency. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical 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 operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod which activates mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. They can take apart the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel part of the mechanism where the spindle is. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the window frame.
Once the wheel has been 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 wear or damage. This procedure is usually carried out in a clean environment by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any debris or dirt that might be preventing it from functioning normally. After this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician will need an identical dowel size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unusual then it is necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact component for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it is fixed to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.