Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't able to connect properly or are hard to use.
It's important that the double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key is snapped into the lock. It's also potentially a security risk, as the door may not be locked and make you open to intrusion. There are a few easy solutions you can use to repair the issue and make your door functional again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic and start poking around wildly you may end up pushing the damaged piece of the key even further into the lock, thereby making the situation even more difficult.
Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any pieces stuck that might be hindering the flow. If you have a part of the key that is stuck and is not being removed, grab it with the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, however, be careful not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could be used as hook extractors, and some Jigsaw blades also work for this use. If you don't happen to have any of these, you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, you can make use of a pair of tweezers to grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you can't get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available at most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these strategies appear to be working you, it's time to call in a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles or broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are easier to use. Request a repair for your double glazing via our website, or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a major security risk. A professional locksmith can easily repair the cylinder. A locksmith must tap the cylinder in order to repair it. This can be done using a hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to employ a wire or long match. Position the match or the wire end near the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is superior to using the hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made from different metals, including cast iron and aluminum. When the various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly they could rust or corrode and cause them to expand faster than anticipated. As time passes, this may cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is stiff or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this can be the result of many things. This issue could result from a defective locking mechanism or misalignment or a worn-out handle.
Fortunately, this is an easy and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith should be able to solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your property. Depending on Bromley double glazing , they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star 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 from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that wear out as time passes and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. If yours fails it's difficult to determine the source of the issue and make sure you fix it correctly.
Fixing the broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or the locking mechanism will increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It can be expensive to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window in the open position and the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it to enhance the appearance. It is important to not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle, such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, with an additional screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once the screw is free, you can take the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, ensuring it is the same length as the previous one (you can typically find these online or in hardware stores) and then securely screw it into place. Don't over tighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Close the handle and test it. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to check your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they don't, you could experience draughts and damp in your home as well as compromising your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case 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 a locking device in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod that triggers the 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 possible that the spindle has broken This can be a very frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and effectively fix the issue. A good locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel part in which the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in a clean environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or debris that might be obstructing its normal functioning. The spindle may be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician will need a dowel of a similar size to the original and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle is precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired it may require replacement completely. Home centers sell generic replacements. However, if the design of your window is rare then you will need to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact component for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it is attached to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the handle is securely in place, you can use your uPVC windows.