Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to operate.
It's important that the double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you will lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off in a lock, it can be extremely annoying. It could also be a security issue because it could expose you to an intruder if the door does not lock. There are a few easy fixes you can try to repair the issue and make your door work again.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will allow the broken piece to come out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any pieces stuck that could be hindering the flow. If you happen to have a small piece of the key that is sticking out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip or 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 broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can work in a pinch as a hook extractor and Jigsaw blades can also be used for this use. If you don't have any of them available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grasp and pull out the last piece of broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. This is usually found in most hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be inside the lock.
If none of these tricks are working, it might be time to call locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are more easy to operate. Book a double glazing repair with us online or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a serious security risk. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix the cylinder locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this with an hammer or another tool, but the best way is to use a long match or piece of wire. Then, put the match's end or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can then hit the lock to crack it. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer that could damage the lock.
Overheating is the primary cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder block and head are made from different metals, like cast iron and aluminum. When Mansfield double glazing repairs are heated and cool at different rates, it can create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause for cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained correctly they could be corroded or rust and cause them to expand more than they would normally. As time passes, this may also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety reasons. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or an old handle are the most common causes of this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith should be able to resolve this problem within an hour of arriving at your home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes based on your particular requirements. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will give you an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to get 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 are equipped with complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours fails, it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue and make sure that you repair it correctly.
Fixing your broken handle, whether it's an internal latch or locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing the handle could be costly and may damage the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking some time to do it right.
Screwdriver Open the window remove the screw that holds the handle. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, normally concealed by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can replace them when needed.
Then, with an additional screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle at the back. Once the screw is free, you can remove the handle and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a new one, making sure it's the same length as the old one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and then securely screw it in the right place. Be careful not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're using the handle. If they're not closing correctly, you could encounter damp or draughts in your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames to ensure they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle inside a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an locking device within the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod which activates locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle has been damaged This can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel component of the mechanism, where the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting every component, observing any damage or excessive wear. The process is carried out in a clean, well-lit room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or other debris that could be hindering its normal function. The spindle may then be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician could use a dowel of a similar 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 spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could require replacement. Home centers sell generic replacements however if your window design is unique, you will have to speak with an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can make the exact part. After the spindle is installed, it can be connected to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the existing screws in the frame. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.